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llnttieraitg 


This  book  was  presented  by 

MILTON  M.  LEONARD,  D.V.M. 

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NORTH  CAROLINA  STATE  UNIVERSITY  LIBRARIES 

IlllillllillllJIIIIIi 


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Animal  Castration  j 

A  Book  for  the  Use  of  \ 

STUDENTS  AND  PRACTITIONERS  I 

240  Pages  \ 

with  over  200  Halftone  Illustrations  from  Original  Photographs  \ 

BY 

GEORGE  R.  WHITE,  M.D.,  D.V.S.  I 

Graduate  Columbian  University   (Veterinary  Department),  and  i 

University  of  Nashville    (Medical  Department)  [ 

MEMBER  I 

American  Veterinary  Medical  Association 

Tennessee  Veterinary  Medical  Association  I 

American  Medical  Association  '■■ 

Tennessee  Medical  Association  < 

Nashville  Academy  of  Medicine,  and  ] 

Davidson  County  Medical  Society  ■; 

Tennessee  Academy  of  Science,  • 

United  States  Live  Stock  Sanitary  Association,  etc.  i 

Professor  Veterinary  Medicine — Knapp  School  of  Country  Life  ! 

TEACHER  SURGICAL  RESTRAINT  AND  CASTRATION  AND  SPAYING  ; 

Chicago  Veterinary  College 
Terre  Haute  Veterinary  College 

Indiana  Veterinary  College,  and  • 
Alabama  Polytechnic  Institute  (Veterinary  Department) 

Author  "Restraint  of  Domestic  Animals,"  etc.  \ 


PUBLISHED   BY   THE   AUTHOR 
NASHVILIvE,  TENN. 


Copyrighted  1914 

by 
Gp:orge  R.  White 


1914 

FOSTER  &  PARKES  COMPANY, 

Nashville,  Tenn. 


DEDICATION 

TO 

Professor  Charles  Allen  Cary,  B.  S.,  D.V.  M., 

As  a  slight  token  of  personal  friendship  and  esteem,  as 
well  as  for  his  successful  efforts  in  undertaking 
the   apparently   insurmountable   task   of   es- 
tablishing and  successfully  conducting 
the   first   accredited  Veterinary 
College     in     the     South 

The  Author 


PREFACE 


To  those  entrusted,  with  the  onerous  task  of  castrating  and 
spaying  domestic  animals  the  scantness  of  modern  literature — 
especially  that  i^rinted  in  English  and  by  American  authors — 
dealing  with  the  subject  must  have  always  proved  a  matter  of 
considerable  embarrassment. 

This  universally  recognized  lack  of  a  well  illustrated  book  on 
the  important  subject  of  unsexing  animals  has  induced  the  author 
to  write  and  publish  this  volume. 

It  is  offered  with  the  desire  and  hope  that  it  will — in  a  meas- 
ure at  least — close  this  wide  gap  in  our  English  speaking  lit- 
erature. 

Twenty-one  years'  actual  and  active  experience  in  city  and 
rural  practice  as  well  as  several  years  as  a  teacher  of  this  par- 
ticular subject  leads  me  to  believe  that  a  text-book  well  illustrated, 
written  by  an  American,  based  on  American  methods,  will  be 
acceptable  to  the  student  and  practitioner  who  really  has  a  de- 
sire to  become  proficient  in  performing  the  operations  of  cas- 
tration and  spaying.  The  illustrations  and  text  are  for  the  most 
part  original.  The  methods  described  are  those  employed  in 
actual  every-day  practice  by  the  author. 

In  presenting  this  volume  to  the  indulgence  of  veterinarians 
the  author's  only  regret  is  that  during  its  preparation  he  was 
State  Veterinarian  of  Tennessee,  and  did  not  have  the  time  at 
his  disposal  to  insure  the  best  authorship  results.  Hence  he  is 
constrained  to  appeal  for  lenient  judgment  and  criticism  on  the 
book  prepared  under  no  conmion  stress  of  duties — administrative, 
professional,  social  and  political. 

Geoege  R.  White. 


FOREWORD 


INSTRUMENTS 

The  first  essential  to  the  proper  performance  of  the  operations 
of  castration  and  spaying  is  instrnments  of  modern  and  approved 
design  made  from  material  of  unquestioned  quality. 

Instruments  of  the  same  external  appearance — which  usually 
means  nothing  more  nor  less  than  finish,  and  finish  in  turn  merely 
means  polish  and  plate — may  vary  greatly  in  quality  of  material 
and  workmanship. 

Never  purchase  cheap  instruments  at  any  price,  as  they  are 
not  satisfactory  or  dependable.  The  best  are  none  too  good,  as 
oftentimes  an  instrument  will  make  or  unmake  a  man's  reputa- 
tion as  an  operator. 

If  these  operations — castration  and  spaying — are  to  be  done 
neatly  and  with  dexterity,  antiquated  instruments  have  no  place 
in  the  operative  technique.  Nothing  conduces  quite  so  much  to 
awkwardness  in  operating  and  an  all  around  ''bunglesome  job" 
as  do  instruments  of  improper  construction. 

There  are  numerous  castrating  and  spaying  instruments  of- 
fered to  the  public  by  many  commercial  firms  that  are  bad  and 
others  worse  than  worthless  for  the  purpose  for  which  they  are 
intended.  The  one  admonition  the  author  would  offer  above  all 
others  is  to  exercise  extreme  care  and  good  judgment  in  selecting 
castrating  and  spaying  instruments. 

Most  manufacturers  of  surgical  instruments  and  their  shop 
mechanics  have  little  or  no  conception  or  practical  knowledge  of 
the  actual  requirements  of  the  instruments  which  thev  make  and 
sell. 

Unless  the  purchaser  knows  what  he  wants  he  is  at  the  mercy 

of  the  ignorant  manufacturer  and  is  liable  to  make  mistakes  in 

purchasing  which  will  cause  embarrassment  later  when  actually 

engaged  in  operating. 

Remember  that  there  are  several  grades  and  many  designs  of 


castrating  and  spaying  instruments.  Always  call  for  "A  grade," 
and  see  to  it  that  you  get  exactly  what  you  call  for  and  select 
the  design  best  suited  for  your  requirements. 

It  will  be  observed  that  numerous  instruments  are  illustrated 
and  described  in  the  following  pages.  AVhere  only  one  pattern 
of  an  instrument  is  showm  this  means  that  in  the  author's  opinion 
this  particular  instrument  has  advantages  over  all  others  and  is 
the  proper  one  to  purchase.  AVhere  two  or  more  instruments  of 
the  same  character  are  shown  it  means  that  the  author  has  no 
i:)reference  and  that  both  instruments  are  equally  satisfactory, 
and  either  may  be  purchased  without  making  a  mistake. 

Each  and  every  instrument  illustrated  in  this  volume  possesses 
merit,  and  no  mistake  will  l)e  made  in  selecting  them  or  either 
of  them.  Our  only  object  in  thus  illustrating  and  describing  the 
instruments  is  that  in  so  doing  the  amateur  may  have  the  advan- 
tage of  the  author's  twenty-one  years'  experience  in  selecting 
and  using  this  class  of  surgical  instruments,  and  with  the  hope 
that  the  information  herein  contained  may  in  a  measure  at  least 
protect  the  inexperienced  prospective  castrator  from  waking  up 
later  to  the  fact  that  he  is  in  possession  of  a  lot  of  ''useless  junk" 
which  has  been  sold  to  him  for  castrating  and  spaying  instru- 
ments. 

METHODS 

It  will  be  further  observed  that  only  one  method  of  operating 
is  illustrated  and  described,  which  is  quite  a  revolution  in  this 
class  of  literature.  All  antiquated  methods  and  operative  tech- 
nique have  been  purposely  eliminated  in  order  to  avoid  confusion 
and  embarrassment.  The  methods  mentioned  are  those  which 
most  appeal  to  the  author's  fancy,  and  while  he  considers  them 
the  best,  safest,  and  most  satisfactory,  still  he  lays  no  claim  to 
their  being  the  only  good  methods,  and  he  is  perfecth^  willing  to 
be  charitable  to  the  extent  of  granting  to  others  the  privilege  of 
operating  differently  if  they  so  desire. 

RESTRAIXT 

Restraint  of  domestic  animals,  in  the  broadest  acceptation  of 
the  term,  means  much  to  the  average  busy  and  active  practitioner 
of  veterinarv  surgerv. 


Each  species  of  our  domestic  animals  is  endowed  with  one  or 
more  means  of  defense.  These  are  oftentimes — in  individuals  of 
certain  temperament — converted  into  weapons  of  offense.  The 
horse  w^ll  strike,  kick  and  bite;  the  ox  will  gore  and  kick;  the 
dog  and  hog  will  bite.  It  is  with  these  weapons  of  offense  that 
we  are  called  upon  to  contend  and  overcome  by  restraint.  These 
animals  must  be  rendered  harmless  by  the  means  of  restraint 
v/hich  we  have  at  hand.  Of  course  the  particular  method  em- 
ployed depends  largely  upon  the  animal  and  the  degree  of  re- 
straint necessary. 

While  we  constantly  find  it  necessary  to  employ  methods  of 
restraint  in  order  to  confine  the  animal,  we  should  always  do  so 
in  as  humane  a  manner  as  possible.  Humanitarian  treatment 
applies  here  as  well  as  elsewhere  in  the  practice  of  veterinary 
science.  We  should  never  take  advantage  of  an  animal  when 
confined  in  order  to  cause  torture  or  to  inflict  unnecessary  pain 
of  any  kind. 

The  surgeon  is  confronted  with  problems  pertaining  to  re- 
straint or  some  method  of  subjection  almost  ever^^  hour  of  each 
day  of  his  professional  career. 

Not  only  does  the  restraint  problem  confront  and  concern  the 
surgeon  alone,  but  his  client  and  patient  are  also  directly  inter- 
ested to  a  well  marked  degree.  The  surgeon  owes  it  to  his  client, 
his  patient  and  himself  to  become  proficient  in  properly  and  se- 
curely restraining  animals  for  examination  and  operation.  With- 
out efficient  means  of  restraint  the  surgeon  is  in  constant  dan- 
ger of  great  bodily  harm ;  the  animal  in  danger  of  self-inflicted  in- 
juries as  a  result  of  its  own  efforts  at  resistance,  thereby  causing 
the  owner  financial  loss,  which  could  and  should  have  been  avoided 
by  proper  methods  of  procedure. 

In  order  to  cast  and  secure  an  animal  properly  and  success- 
fully the  operator  should  possess  a  level  head  associated  with 
plenty  of  courage  and  confidence.  He  should  retain  Ins  equili- 
brium in  spite  of  any  untoward  accident  or  emergency  which  may 
chance  to  take  place.  Self-confidence  and  good  judgment  are 
both  valuable  assets  in  performing  work  of  the  character  which 
this  book  undertakes  to  illustrate  and  describe.  The  surgeon 
should  get  control  and  remain  in  control  from  the  time  the  twitch 


is  placed  oii  the  animal  preparatory  to  applying  the  hobbles  or 
casting  harness  until  the  animal  is  again  on  its  feet.  Experience 
and  dexterity  are  not  to  l)t'  underrated  in  the  operator  who  is  to 
undertake  the  task  of  securing  and  properly  confining  the  larger 
of  our  domestic  animals.  Do  not  allow  yourself  to  become  excited 
or  unduly  alarmed  or  aggravated  should  everything  not  transpire 
as  smoothly  as  you  expect  or  desire,  for  in  so  doing  the  surgeon 
is  not  in  possession  of  his  mental  faculties  sufficiently  to  do  justice 
either  to  himself,  his  patient  or  his  client. 

Perfect,  or  even  good,  surgery  is  impossible  without  perfect  re- 
straint. The  surgeon  is  no  better  than  the  restraint  method  which 
he  uses.  It  is  rare  to  see  a  surgeon  handle  a  knife  any  more 
f-killfully  than  he  handles  his  restraint  technique.  Imperfect  re- 
straint means  an  imperfect  operation. 

The  particular  methods  of  restraint  necessary  for  each  oper- 
ation and  the  details  pertaining  to  same  will  be  specifically  de- 
scribed uuflei-  the  proper  headings.  G.    R.    AV. 


TABLE  OF  CONTENTS. 


PART   I. 

Castration. 

Chapter         I.     Castration  of  the  Stallion. 

Chapter       II.     Castration  of  the  Colt. 

Chapter      III.     Castration  of  the  Mule. 

Chapter  IV.  Complications  Encountered  in  Castrating — viz. : 
Inguinal  Hernia,  Scrotal  Hernia,  Cryptorchid, 
Monorchid,  Orchitis,  and  Hermaphrodite. 

Chapter  V.  Sequelae  of  Castration — viz.:  Septic  Infection, 
Tetanus,  Prolapse  of  the  Omentum,  Injuries 
from  Casting,  Peritonitis,  Colic,  Prolapse  of 
the  Intestine,  Azoturia,  Hemorrhage,  Oedema 
of  Sheath,  Schirrous  Cord,  Exuberant  Gran- 
ulations, and  Hydrocele. 

Chapter      VI.     Castration  of  the  Bull. 

Chapter    VII.     Castration  of  the  Boar. 

Chapter  VIII.     Castration  of  the  Ram. 

Chapter      IX.     Castration  of  the  Hog. 

Chapter        X.     Castration  of  the  Cat. 

Chapter      XL     Caponizing. 


PART  II. 

Spaying. 

Chapter  I.  Mare  Spaying. 

Chapter  II.  Cow,  Ileifer  and  Calf  Spaying. 

Chapter  III.  Sow  Spaying. 

Chapter  IV.  Sheep  Spaying. 

Chapter  V.  Bitch  Spaying. 

Chapter  VI.  Cat  Spaying. 

Chapter  VII.  Poulardizing. 

Chapter  VIII.  Deodorizing  the  Skunk. 


PART   L 


CASTRATION. 

Definition — Orchectomy ;  excision  of  one  or  more  testicles.  The 
term  castration  is  also  applied  to  removal  of  ovaries  from  the 
female.  However,  when  the  word  castration  appears  in  this  vol- 
ume— with  exception  of  title — it  has  reference  to  unsexing  the 
male  animal. 

History — Castration  is  one  of  the  most  ancient  of  surgical  op- 
erations upon  animals.  It  was  advocated  and  practiced  as  early 
as  seven  centuries  before  the  Christian  era.  Time  and  tradition 
have  not  lessened  its  application  or  usefulness.  In  fact,  during 
recent  years  the  popularity  of  the  operation  has  rapidly  in- 
creased until  now  it  is  considered  one  of  the  most  useful  and 
valuable  in  animal  surgery. 

It  is  practiced  without  hesitancy  upon  all  domestic  and  wild 
animals,  and  its  economic  value  cannot  be  overestimated. 

The  earlier  modes  of  operating  were  as  follows:  Martelage, 
Tearing,  Scraping,  Torsion,  Firing,  Bistournage,  Ligature  and 
Clamps.  These  ancient  methods  were  extremely  painful,  and  by 
some  considered  cruel  and  inhumane.  They  have  all  been  super- 
seded by  less  painful  and  more  modern  ones,  the  most  recent  of 
which  are  Emasculator,  Vasectomy,  Bisection,  Yaso-Ligation  and 
lastly  Vas-occlusion  recently  advocated  by  Dr.  Napoleon  Berdozzi, 
of  Italy.  While  the  above  have  been  mentioned  simply  from  an 
historic  viewpoint,  one  of  them,  viz.,  Emasculator,  stands  out 
prominently  as  the  best,  most  widely  practiced  and  satisfactory 
method  of  operating,  and  on  this  account  the  "Emasculator  meth- 
od" will  be  adhered  to  in  all  instances  where  it  is  applicable  in 
this  volume. 


14  Axi:\rAL  Castratiox 

CHAPTER  I. 

Castration  of  the  Stalliox. 

Objects  and  Indications — While  the  operation  is  most  often 
practiced  as  an  economic  procedure  in  order  to  increase  the  ani- 
mal's monetary  value  and  usefulness  to  mankind,  it  is  nevertheless 
vahiable  as  a  corrector  of  many  acquired  vices,  such  as  masturba- 
tion, viciousness,  etc.  It  is  also  indicated  in  impotency,  some  dis- 
eases of  penis,  scrotum,  spermatic  cord,  and  testicle.  Its  effect  is 
both  mental  and  physical. 

The  operation  has  a  decided  tendency  to  render  the  animal  quiet 
and  docile  and  to  alter  the  conformation  in  some  material  respects 
such  as  lessening  development  of  the  shoulders,  chest,  neck  and 
withers.  While  on  the  other  hand  the  development  of  the  hind 
quarters  is  stimulated. 

Castrated  stallions  are  known  as  geldings. 

Age — Stallions  may  be  safely  castrated  at  any  age  provided 
they  are  in  good  physical  condition. 

Season — Spring  and  early  fall. 

Preparation — The  intestinal  tract  should  be  practically  empt^y 
at  time  of  castration.  This  is  attained  by  withholding  food  for 
24  to  30  hours  before  operating.  By  heeding  the  al)ove  admonition 
the  danger  of  rupturing  internal  viscera  during  the  operation 
and  colic  afterwards  will  be  obviated. 

casteatixg  IX  the  recumbext  posture. 

Restraint — When  it  has  been  decided  to  cast  the  animal,  we 
should,  first  of  all,  carefully  survey  the  surroundings  and  select 
the  most  satisfactory  location.  Of  course  circumstances  and  exist- 
ing conditions  play  an  important  role  in  making  our  selection. 
When  the  weather  will  permit  the  operation  being  performed  out 
of  doors,  there  is  no  place  better  adapted  than  an  open  field  or 
lawn.  It  is  here  that  we  have  ample  room  to  manipulate  our  re- 
straint technique  without  interruption.    AVhen  we  have  selected 


Animal  Castration 


15 


the  location,  the  next  problem  which  confronts  us  is  the  ^'casting 
bed."  The  ideal  operating  mat  or  mattress  is  a  plot  of  green 
grass  grown  upon  smooth  ground.  Always  avoid  the  manure  heap 
or  the  "rotten  straw  pile"  whenever  possible.  They  are  both  hot- 
beds of  all  forms  of  bacterial  growth  and  are  directly  responsible 
for  many  cases  of  fatal  septic  infections.  If  we  are  forced  to 
cast  an  animal  inside  of  doors,  then  we  must  make  the  best  of 
our  misfortune  and  get  busy  in  devising  means  and  methods  to 
best  overcome  that  handicap.    Select  the  place — be  it  hallway,  stall 


Fig.  1— Stallion  Cast  on  Left  Side  With  Conkey  Self-Lock  Buckle  Hol)bles. 
Leg  P  Drawn  from  Over  Field  of  Operation  by  Rope  R.  S. 

or  operating  room — where  the  most  room  is  available.  Then  a 
proper  bed  must  be  prepared.  This  may  be  done  by  the  use  of 
tanbark,  soft  wood  shavings,  straw,  hay,  excelsior,  sawdust,  etc., 
or  a  specially  constructed  mattress  or  pad  may  be  used. 

Lead  animal  to  proper  position,  put  on  twitch,  apply  the  Con- 
key  self -lock  buckle  hobbles  and  cast  him  on  the  left  side.  (See 
Fig.  1.) 

AVhen  cast,  the  off  hind  leg  should  be  released  from  hobble 


16 


Axi:\rAL  Castratiox 


strap  and  with  a  IS-foot  rope  looped  above  ankle  (P)  and  passed 
over  withers  (Q)  and  under  neck  then  back  above  hock  (E)  the 
leg  is  drawn  fi'om  over  field  of  operation.  In  this  position  the 
largest  stallion  can  be  castrated  without  difficulty. 

IXSTRUMEXTS. 

1.  Knife — Of  course  a  properly  constructed  knife  is  the  first 
essential  instrument  required  in  performing  this  operation.  The 
AVilliams  all-metal  stiff-handle  auseptic  castrating  knife  (Fig. 
2)  is  entirely  satisfactory  for  castrating  stallions  in  the  recumbent 
posture. 


Fig.  2 — Williams'  AU-.Metal  Stiff  Handle  Anseptic  Castrating  Knife. 

2.  Emascnlatoi- — The  only  <tther  instrument  necessary  is  an 
emasculator  for  the  purpose  of  crushing  the  spermatic  coi'd  in 
such  manner  as  to  assist  nature  in  controlling  hemorrhage. 

There  are  many  designs  of  emasculators  on  the  American  mar- 
ket; however,  many  of  them  are  inferior  and  unsatisfactory  both 
in  design  and  workmanship.  In  order  for  an  emasculator  to 
perform  the  task  for  which  it  is  intended  it  must  first  of  all  be 
constructed  with  straight  cutting  and  crimping  edges.    (See  D,  C, 


3— A  Perfectly  .Made  and   Well  De-      Fig.    1— An  Imiierfectly  Made  and  Badly 
signed    Rlmasciilator.  Designed  Emasculator. 

Fig.  3.)  This  simply  means  that  the  lower  or  female  jaw  must 
be  on  a  straight  line.  When  thus  constructed  the  cord  is  grasped 
and  crushed  before  it  is  severed.  Any  emasculator  made  with 
curved  cutting  and  crim])ing  edges   (see  A,  B,  Fig.  4),  which 


Animal  Castration  17 

means  that  the  lower  or  female  jaw  is  on  a  curved  line,  is  not 
dependable  in  controlling  hemorrhage,  hence  is  unsafe  and  un- 
satisfactory. Fig.  5  illustrates  an  emasculator  of  proper  design 
and  g'ood  construction. 


Fig.   r. — A   Safe  and   Satisfactory   "Single   Crimp   Emasculator." 

The  "triple  crimp  emasculators"  (Figs.  6,  7  and  8)  are  some- 
what safer  in  controlling  hemorrhage  than  the  "single  crimp" 
instrument,  as  it  crushes  the  cord  in  three  directions.  The  author 
has  used  a  "triple  crimp"  instrument  for  several  years  with  good 
results.  Many  of  the  "triple  crimp  emasculators"  now  on  the 
market  are  imperfectly  constructed  and  unsatisfactory  in  that 
not  enough  space  has  been  left  between  the  male  (upper)  crush- 
ing plate  and  the  female  (lower)  plate — when  the  instrument  is 
closed — to  receive  the  cord  of  a  large  stallion.  Figs.  6,  7  and  8 
illustrate  two  "triple  crimp"  emasculators  both  of  which  are 
satisfactory.  Fig.  8  is  equipped  with  a  self-adjusting  auxilliary 
attachment.  The  block  attached  to  the  male  blade  and  longi- 
tudinally serrated,  is  self-adjusting,  by  which  means  the  com- 
pressing surfaces  maintain  a  parallel  position  when  operated, 
thereby  preventing  the  cord  and  arteries  from  being  mashed,  cut 
or  torn  at  point  nearest  the  hinge  of  the  instrument. 

The  spring  device  operating  the  auxiliary  attachment  permits 


18 


Axi:mal  Castration 


automatic  expansion,  tlierchy  niakini;'  the  instrument  adjustable 
to  large  curds,  which  in  many  cases  cannot  be  cut  hy  other  forms 
of  "triple  crimp''  emasculators  in  which  the  crushing  block  is 
not  expansible. 


Fiii.   t;— "Triijle   Crimp   Emasculatoi 


(Front   View, 


I*"ig-  7— "Triijle  Crimp  Emasculator."      (Back   View.) 


Animal  Castration 


19 


Fig.  8 — Anseptic  Triple  Crimp  Eraasculator  With  Self-Adjusting  Auxiliary  Attachment. 

Anafonn) — A  comprehensive  knowledge  of  the  anatomy  of  the 
inguinal  and  scrotal  regions  is  imperative  if  a  man  is  ever  to  be 
anything  like  a  thrilling  success  in  performing  the  various  neces- 
sarv  operations  that  are  to  be  described  later.  However,  on  ac- 
count of  the  limited  space  at  my  disposal  it  will  be  impossible  to 
go  into  minute  details  here.  For  complete  and  detailed  anatomical 
description  the  reader  is  respectfully  referred  to  Sisson,  Chau- 
reau  and  Strangeway's  text-l^ooks  on  Veterinary  Anatomy. 

Scrotiun — Is  a  sac  or  bag  made  up  externally  by  a  layer  of  skin 
which  has  been  continued  from  the  sheath,  abdomen  and  flanks. 
This  skin  is  smooth,  soft  and  hairless  compared  with  the  other 
integument  on  the  body.  The  scrotum  consists  of  two  cavities 
divided  by  a  longitudinal  raphe  ("median  line").    Below  the  skin 


20 


AxiMAL  Castration 


is  the  dortos  which  foi'iiis  the  scrotal  tunic  proper  and  consists 
of  thin  elastic  tissue  and  muscle.  The  dortos  is  a  contiiuiation  of 
the  abdominal  fascia.  Under  the  dortos  is  the  s])erniatic  fascia 
which  is  a  continuation  of  the  external  oblique  muscle.  This 
muscle  is  attached  to  the  external  abdominal  ring.  Inside  is  the 
cremasteric  fascia,  an  expansion  of  the  cremaster  muscle  which 
passes  through  the  inguinal  canal  over  the  cord  and  surrounds 


Fig.  9 — Internal  and  External  Generative  Organs  of  the  Stallion:  A,  Scrotum;  B. 
Skin;  C,  Tunica  Vaginalis;  D,  Dortos;  E,  Cremaster  Muscle;  P,  Left  Vas  Deferens; 
G,  Bulbons  Portion  of  Vas  Deferens;  H,  Vesicula  Seminalis;  I,  Postate  Gland;  J,  Cow- 
pers  Gland;  K,  Sheath;  L,  Meatus  Urinarius;  M,  Retractor  Muscle  of  Penis;  N,  Acceler- 
ator Muscle  Surrounding  Urethra;  O,  Erector  Penis  Muscle;  P,  Glans  Penis;  Q,  Corpus 
Cavernosum;  R,  Right  Internal  Abdominal  Ring;  S,  Left  Internal  Abdominal  Ring; 
T,  Symphysis  Pubis;  U,  Peritoneal  Told  Through  Which  the  Spermatic  Blood  Vessels 
and  Nerves   Pass;   V,  Right  Vas  Deferens;    W,  Bladder;    X,  Rectum. 


Animal  Castration  21 

the  testicle.  Deeper  we  have  the  funnel-shaped  infunclibuliform 
fascia  which  originates  at  the  internal  abdominal  ring.  This  fascia 
is  simply  a  sheath  over  the  testicle,  the  cord  and  their  tunics. 

Inguinal  Canal — This  canal  is  situated  obliquely  between  the 
crural  arch  and  the  internal  oblique  muscle.  The  arch  forms  its 
l^osterior  and  the  muscle  its  anterior  wall.  It  is  compressed  lat- 
erally and  through  it  pass  the  spermatic  cord  and  the  pudic  artery. 
Its  external  orifice  is  termed  the  external  abdominal  ring.  This 
ring  is  oval  in  shape  and  its  direction  is  backwards  and  upwards. 
The  internal  abdominal  ring  is  a  small  aperture  in  the  abdom- 
inal wall  and  is  situated  at  the  uppermost  part  of  the  inguinal 
canal,  which  is  about  8  to  10  inches  above  the  external  abdom- 
inal ring.  The  contents  of  the  inguinal  canal  pass  through  the 
internal  abdominal  ring  in  making  their  exit  from  the  abdominal 
cavity. 

Sheath — The  sheath  is  a  loose  conglomeration  of  skin  extending 
from  the  scrotum  forward,  and  contains  the  free  portion  of  the 
penis.  The  anterior  loose  double  fold  of  sheath  is  known  as  the 
prepuce  or  foreskin,  which  is  corrugated  to  accommodate  the 
penis  during  erection  and  protrusion.  Opening  into  the  sheath 
are  ducts  from  the  giandulae  odorif erae  which  secrete  an  odorous 
matter  peculiar  to  the  sheath.  The  sheath  is  suspended  from 
the  abdominal  walls  by  suspensory  ligaments. 

Spey7natic  (7o/y/— The  testicle  is  suspended  in  the  scrotum  by 
the  spermatic  cord  which  migrates  through  the  inguinal  canal  from 
the  abdominal  cavity  to  the  scrotum.  The  following  structures 
enter  into  its  formation:  Spermatic  venis,  spermatic  artery, 
nerves,  vas  deferens,  lymphatics,  cremaster  muscle  and  tunica 
vaginalis.  The  vas  deferens  is  situated  in  the  posterior  part  of 
the  cord  and  is  enclosed  in  a  special  fold  detached  from  the  inner 
surface  of  the  tunica  vaginalis. 


22  Animal  Castration 


Fig.  10 — External  View  of  Left  Testicle  and  Spermatic  Cord:     A,  Testes;  B,  Globus 
Major;  C,  Globus  Minor;  D,  Body  of  Epididymus;  E  F,  Spermatic  Cord. 

Testicle — The  testicle  is  a  compound  tubular  gland,  ovoid  in 
form,  suspended  by  the  spermatic  cord  and  occupying  space  in 
the  scrotum,  inguinal  canal  or  abdominal  cavity.  When  in  the 
scrotum  it  is  contained  in  a  sac  known  as  the  tunica  vaginalis. 

They  vary  much  in  size  in  different  subjects  and  are  often  of 
unequal  size  in  the  same  individual.  The  epididymus  (D,  Fig.  10) 
is  an  elongated  ])ody  extending  along  upper  border  of  the  testes 
(A).  It  consists  of  a  body  (D),  a  head  or  globus  major  (B), 
and  a  tail  or  blobus  minor  (C). 

Vas  Deferens — The  vas  deferens  is  a  firm  hard  tube  which,  after 
leaving  the  globus  minor,  ascends  the  back  of  the  spermatic  cord 
through  the  external  abdominal  ring,  inguinal  canal,  and  internal 
abdominal  ring  to  the  abdominal  cavity,  where  it  enters  the  ])elvis, 
passing  to  the  antero-lateral  aspect  of  the  bladder,  where  it  is 
joined  by  the  duct  of  the  vesicula  seminales.  This  union  of  ducts 
takes  place  in  the  vicinity  of  the  postate  gland. 

nature's  methods  of  controlling  hemorrhage. 

It  is  well  to  always  bear  in  mind  the  fact  that  nature  is  a  great 
factor  in  controlling  arterial  hemorrhage.  To  understand  exactly 
what  nature  causes  to  take  place  when  an  artery  is  severed  is 
knowledge  which  is  never  harmful  to  the  surgeon,  to  say  the  least 
of  it.     The  following  ha])pens  as  soon  as  an  artery  is  severed: 


Animal  Castration 


23 


(1)  Contraction  of  the  mouth  of  the  vessel  (see  B,  Fig.  11) ;  (2) 
retraction  of  the  vessel  into  its  sheath  (see  C,  Fig.  11)  ;  (3)  clot 
formation  (see  D,  Fig.  11)  ;  (4)  syncope. 


Fig.    11 — Diagramatic  Illustration  Showing  Three  of  Nature's  Methods  of  Con- 
trolling Arterial  Hemorrhage;   A,   Severed    Artery;    B,    Contraction; 
C,  Retraction;   D,  Clot  Formation. 

The  function  of  the  emasculator  is  to  assist  nature  in  prevent- 
ing primary  and  secondary  hemorrhage.  This  is  done  by  crush- 
ing the  cord  which  crimps  or  closes  the  spermatic  artery  to  the 
extent  of  making  the  field  more  favorable  for  clot  formation. 
Never  place  an  emasculator  on  a  cord  in  any  position  except  at 
right  angle  to  the  cord.  (See  Fig.  12.)  If  the  cord  is  severed  at 
any  other  angle  (see  Fig.  13)  fatal  hemorrhage  is  liable  to  occur. 

Warning — Before  beginning  to  operate  always  carefully  ex- 
amine the  animal  for  inguinal  and  scrotal  hernia  (''rupture"), 
abnormalities  in  development  and  diseases  of  the  scrotum  testicle 
and  cord.  It  is  also  well  to  look  out  for  constitutional  diseases 
which  would  have  a  tendency  to  endanger  the  life  of  the  animal 
or  interfere  with  convalescence.    Never  castrate  if  the  animal  is 


24 


AXI.MAI.  (^ASTRATIOX 


Fig.   12 — Correct   Position   of  Emaseulator  on   the   Spermatic   Cord. 


Fig.  13 — Incorrect  Position  of  Hlmasculator  on  tlie  Spermatic  Cord. 

affected  with  straiii;les,  iiitlucnza,  i)lcurisy,  piicunioiiia,  bronchitis, 
catarrhal  fever,  or  purpura  haemorrhagica.  Be  careful  in  cast- 
ing and  tieing,  and  above  all  satisfy  yourself  that  the  testicles  are 
actually  in  the  scrotum. 

Sterilization  of  TiistruiHcnls  und  (Icoiis'ukj  Operator's  Hands 
— If  good  results  are  to  be  expected  all  instruments  should  be  ster- 
ilized by  l)oiling  for  15  to  20  minutes ;  after  boiling  immerse  them 
in  a  porcelain  bowl  or  granite  pan  into  which  has  been  put  one 
tablespoonful  of  either  Lysol  or  Cresol  Compound  U.  S.  P.  to 
each  quart  of  water.  In  the  absence  of  the  above,  carbolic  acid 
in  2  per  cent  solution  is  permissible.  Where  there  are  several 
animals  to  be  operated  upon  it  is  not  practicable  nor  is  it  neces- 
sary or  desirable  to  boil  the  instruments  between  each  operation. 
However,  they  should  be  washed  and  placed  back  in  the  anti- 
septic solution.  The  operator's  hands  should  be  thoroughly 
w^ashed  with  soap  and  warm  water — using  a  scrub  or  nail  brush — 
before  beginning  a  job  of  castrating  and  he  should  wash  them  in 


Animal  Casteation  25 

an  antiseptic  solution  between  operations.     The  cleaner  you  are 
with  your  work  the  fewer  cases  of  sepsis  you  will  have  to  follow. 

Operative  Tccliniqiie — After  the  animal  is  cast  and  tied  and  the 
instruments  and  hands  of  the  operator  prepared,  the  field  of  opera- 
tion and  the  surrounding  parts  should  be  thoroughly  washed  with 
Lysol  or  Cresol  Compound  U.  S.  P.  in  the  strength  of  one  table- 
spoonful  to  each  quart  of  water.  I  will  here  take  advantage  of  this 
opportunity  to  condemn  in  the  strongest  and  most  emphatic  terms 
possible  ''sheath  washing"  at  time  of  castrating.  What  is  here 
meant  by  "sheath  washing"  is  washing  or  undertaking  in  any 
manner  to  cleanse  the  interior  of  the  sheath.  Washing  the  sheath 
at  or  immediately  before  castration  will  not  only  contaminate  the 
field  of  operation  and  thereby  increase  the  danger  of  sepsis,  but  it 
invariably  encourages  the  early  development  of  aggravated  cases 
of  oedema  and  oftentimes  paraphimosis.  The  sheath  should  be 
washed  several  days  before  operating  or  it  should  be  let  alone  until 
after  the  animal  has  completely  recovered.     With  the  animal, 


Fig.  14 — General  External  View  of  Scrotum  and  Sheath.     AA,  Incisions  %-inch 
on  each  side  of  Median  Line,  4  inches  long  and  parallel  to  the  line. 


2G 


Animal  Castration 


instruments  and  operator's  bands  prepared,  the  scrotal  incision  is 
made  by  grasping  both  testicles  in  the  left  hand  and  with  two  bold 
strokes  of  the  knife  cut  through  skin  of  scrotum  and  testicular 
coverings  without  hesitation.  Expose  both  testicles  to  view.  The 
larger  the  incision  the  better  the  results.  Thev  should  not  be  less 
than  3^2  to  4  inches  long  and  about  %  to  1  inch  on  each  side  of 
the  raphe  ("median  line")  and  parallel  to  it  (see  Fig.  14). 

The  testicles  are  now  exposed.  Grasp  one  of  them  with  the  left 
hand,  being  careful  not  to  touch  the  cord  above  where  it  is  to  be 
severed.  Place  the  emasculator  on  the  cord,  being  careful  to  see 
that  the  crimping  side  is  next  to  the  scrotum.  Now  lift  the  testicle 
upwards  at  direct  right  angles  to  the  animal  by  making  from  two 
to  three  pounds — depending  upon  size  of  horse — tension  on  the 
cord,  at  the  same  time  pushing  the  emasculator  well  down  against 
the  scrotum  and  at  right  angles  to  the  cord,  after  which  close 
the  instrument  quickly  and  firmly  until  the  cord  and  all  its  cover- 
ings are  severed  as  close  to  the  scrotum  as  i^ossible.    (See  Fig.  15.) 


Fig.  15 — Severing  Spermatic  Cord  witli  the  Emasculator.     A,  Left  Testicle; 
B,  Right  Testicle;   C,  Emasculator  Applied  to  Spermatic  Cord. 


Animal  Castration 


27 


As  soon  as  the  cord  is  severed  quickly  release  it  and  hasten  to 
remove  the  opposite  testicle.  It  is  a  useless  waste  of  time  and 
energy  to  allow  the  cord  to  remain  in  the  instrument  for  several 
minutes  as  some  operators  advocate.  The  quicker  the  cord  is 
released  the  less  the  pain  and  the  quicker  the  blood  will  clot 
about  mouth  of  artery.  By  the  time  the  jaws  of  the  emasculator 
have  come  together  the  instrument  has  done  all  for  the  cord  that 
it  can  possibly  do.    Why  procrastinate  in  removing  it  ? 

By  reference  to  Fig.  16  you  will  observe  the  correct  position 
of  the  emasculator  on  cord;  also  exactly  what  structures  are 
severed. 


Fig    16— Spermatic  Cord  and  its  Coverings  Severed  with  the  Emasculator. 
f'  Left  Hand  of  Operator;  G,  Right  Hand  of  Operator;  H,  Emasculator; 
'     I    Body  of  Epididymus:  J,  Tunica  Vaginalis:   K,  Incised  Portion 
'  of  Tunica  Vaginalis  Retracted  on  Cord;  L,  Spermatic  Cord. 

The  all  too  common  practice  of  "cord  dissection"  is  also  an 
unnecessary  and  uncalled  for  waste  of  the  operator's  time  and 


28  Animal  Castration 

energy  to  say  nothing  of  the  additional  pain  inflicted  upon  the 
patient  as  a  result  of  prolonged  surgical  interference. 

After  Care  and  Treatment, — A  small  per  cent  of  stallions  after 
castration  will  become  unusually  and  uncomfortably  restless  and 
suffer  what  appears  to  be  excruciating  pain.  Sometimes  this  pain 
is  inter-abdominal  and  sometimes  not.  In  such  cases  Fluid  Ex- 
tract Cannabis  Indica  should  be  administered  in  ounce  doses  at 
two-hour  intervals.  The  animal  should  ])e  frequently  observed 
for  appearance  of  secondary  hemorrhage  and  other  sequelae 
which  may  arise.  The  diet  should  be  limited,  and  plenty  of  exer- 
cise allowed.  Best  to  run  at  pasture  during  recovery  and  con- 
valescence. Endeavor  to  keep  them  away  from  stable  and  barn- 
yard manure.  If  the  lips  of  the  incisions  should  adhere  together 
to  the  extent  of  stopping  free  drainage  from  the  scrotum,  the 
parts  should  be  thoroughly  w^ashed  and  reopened  by  forcing  one 
or  more  clean  fingers  through  the  scrotal  incisions.  In  some  in- 
stances it  becomes  necessary  to  ' '  open  up ' '  every  two  days  for  six 
or  seven  days.  However,  so  long  as  the  wounds  are  draining 
"opening  up"  is  unnecessary. 

After  castration  it  is  not  necessary  to  protect  stallions,  colts 
and  mules  from  flies,  as  this  class  of  animals  prevent  ''fly  con- 
tamination" of  the  scrotal  wounds  by  the  free  and  well-directed 
use  of  their  tails.  Even  in  the  midst  of  "fly  time"  we  never  have 
maggots  develop  in  their  scrotums. 

Contrary  to  the  teachings  of  some,  the  author's  experience  would 
indicate  that  warm  showers  and  even  rains  on  animals  after  cas- 
tration are  not  harmful  and  are  to  be  greatly  preferred  over 
allowing  the  animals  to  remain  in  the  barn  and  barnyard  in  con- 
stant danger  of  wound  contamination  from  manure,  dirt,  etc. 

Treatment  of  the  various  sequelae  of  castration  will  be  taken 
up  in  subsequent  pages. 

Profjnosis — Under  parallel  conditions  and  sui-roiuidings  there 
appears  to  be  very  little  or  no  more  danger  in  castrating  aged 
stallions  than  colts.  However,  on  the  other  hand,  when  we  face  the 
fact  that  a  large  per  cent  of  stallions  are  affected  with  cord,  scrotal, 
testicular  and  othei'  diseases  which  must  be  taken  into  considera- 
tion in  comparing  the  danger  of  castrating  stallions  with  that  of 
colts  we  are  constrained  to  state  the  danger  to  old  stallions  far 
exceeds  that  of  younger  animals. 


Animal  Castration 


29 


CASTRATION  OF  THE  STALLION  IN  STANDING  POSTURE. 

Objects  and  Indications — See  page  14. 

Age — Any  time  after  testicle  has  descended  into  the  scrotum, 
preferably  in  aged  stallions. 

Season — See  page  14. 

Restraint — A  well-made  and  properly  applied  twitch  in  the 
hands  of  a  fearless  and  physically  strong  assistant. 

Instruments — 1.  Emasculator.  (See  Figs.  3,  4,  5,  6,  7  and  8.) 
2.  Knife.  It  is  necessary  to  have  a  knife  with  a  sharp  point 
and  devoid  of  ''belly"  in  order  that  it  may  be  easily  thrust  into 
the  testicle.  Robinson's  Castrating  Knife  (Fig.  17)  and  Wil- 
liams' Castrating  Knife  (modified)  (Fig.  18)  are  probably  the 
most  satisfactory  ones  for  performing  this  operation. 


Fig.  17 — Robinson's  Knife. 


Fig.  18— Williams'  Castrating  Knife   (Modified). 

The  extremely  sharp  point,  short  cutting  surface  and  roughened 
handles  of  the  Robinson  knife  are  its  meritorious  features.  The 
author's  modification  of  the  Williams  castrating  knife  makes 
it  a  desirable  instrument  for  castrating  in  the  standing  posture. 
It  will  be  observed  by  comparing  this  knife  with  the  original 
Williams'  (Fig.  2)  that  the  "belly"  has  been  ground  out  and 
the  point  sharpened  in  order  to  facilitate  thrusting  it  into  the 
testicle. 

Anatomy — See  pages  19-21. 


30  Axi:\[AL  Castration 

Warn  in  (J — Before  uiidertakiug  to  o|)erate  take  the  time  and 
precaution  to  satisfy  yourself  on  the  following  points: 

1.  That  the  animal  is  not  of  a  disposition  or  temperament 
which  would  make  operating  in  the  standing  posture  counter- 
indicated. 

2.  That  the  testicle  is  actually  in  the  scrotum. 

3.  That  no  hernia  is  present. 

4.  That  the  animal  is  not  affected  with  those  local  diseases  of 
the  scrotum,  testicle  or  cord  which  would  counter-indicate  the 
operation. 

5.  That  he  is  not  suffering  from  any  specific  constitutional 
disease  which  would  cause  the  operation  of  castration  by  any 
method  to  hazard  his  life. 

6.  That  you  have  a  dependable — preferably  an  experienced — 
assistant  in  charge  of  the  twitch  and  be  sure  the  twitch  is  a 
good  one. 

SterilizatioH  of  Inatriuncnts  and  Cleansing  Operator's  Hands — 
See  page  24. 

Preparation  of  Patient — At  first  thought  it  would  be  considered 
proper  to  disinfect  the  field  of  operation  by  some  form  of  wash- 
ing with  one  of  the  many  excellent  antiseptic  preparations.  How- 
ever, ex])erience  and  close  observation  lead  me  to  state  that  the 
advisability  and  practicability  of  undertaking  the  disinfection  of 
the  field  of  operation  at  this  particular  juncture — after  the  twitch 
is  applied — is,  to  say  the  most  of  it,  a  debatable  question.  Au- 
septic  or  even  antiseptic  surgery  would  suggest  it,  but  the  author 
is  willing  to  chance  running  the  gauntlet  of  criticism  by  here 
going  on  record  as  opposing  disinfection  of  the  operative  field. 
His  only  reason  for  so  doing  is  simply  on  account  of  the  fact 
that  if  a  man  is  to  do  a  satisfactory  and  successful  operation  with 
the  animal  in  the  standing  posture  it  is  imperative  that  the  opera- 
tion begin  as  soon  as  the  twitch  is  applied  and  end  at  the  earliest 
possible  moment,  otherwise  the  twitch  as  an  implement  of  sub- 
jection is  not  a  success  and,  of  course,  the  violent  struggles  and 
efforts  to  escape  on  part  of  the  animal  would  make  the  operation 
a  failure.  I  realize  that  in  making  the  above  statement  I  "run 
counter"  to  some  eminent  authority,  but  since  I  have  never  yet 
seen  a  single  successful  operator  on  stallions  in  the  standing  pos- 


Animal  Castration  31 

ture  who  procrastinated  to  the  extent  of  disinfecting  the  field 
of  operation  immediately  prior  to  operating  I  am  ready  and  will- 
ing to  suffer  the  consequences.  Such  procedure  is  not  practicable, 
neither  is  it  necessary  or  even  desirable.  If  the  operator's  hands 
are  clean  and  his  instruments  sterile,  there  is  not  near  the  danger 
of  septic  infection  from  the  unwashed  scrotum  as  there  is  from  a 
bunglesome  and  imperfect  operation  on  account  of  struggles  on 
the  part  of  the  animal  occasioned  by  delay  in  beginning  and  finish- 
ing the  operation. 

Operative  Tcclniiqnc — With  the  twitch  ai^plied  and  the  animal 
forced  into  the  corner  of  a  box  stall  or  fence  the  operator  ap- 
proaches from  the  left  side — if  he  be  right-handed — at  the  same 
time  instructs  the  assistant,  who  is  holding  the  twitch,  to  at  all 
hazards  keep  the  animal  forced  well  back  into  the  corner.  The 
operator  stands  slightly  out  of  the  range  of  a  kick  with  his  head 
and  shoulders  firmly  pressed  into  the  left  flank  of  the  animal. 
(See  Fig.  19.) 


Fig.  19— Side  View  Showing  Position  of  Patient  and  Operator  Castrating  in 
the  Standing  Posture. 


32 


Animal  Castratiox 


Fig. 


20 — Posterior  View  of  Stallion  While  Undergoing  Castration  in  Standing  Posture. 
A,  Scrotum;    B,  Knife;   C,  Left  Hand;   D,  Right  Hand. 


With  the  left  hand  firmly  grasp  the  scrotum  above  both  testicles, 
at  the  same  time  do  not  underestimate  the  strength  of  the  cremas- 
ter  muscles. 

Expect  to  hold  on  to  your  scrotal  grasp  regardless  of  the  ma- 
neuvers or  antics  of  the  animal.  Since  you  have  already  agreed 
with  your  assistant  to  hold  the  scrotum  as  long  as  he  holds  the 
twitch  you  are  honor  bound  to  do  so,  and  by  so  doing  you  will 
come  out  victorious  in  nineteen  out  of  twenty  attempts.     With 


Animal  Castration 


33 


Fig.  21 — Side  View  witli  Animal  in  Standing  Posture  Showing  Positions  of  Right 
Hand,  Knife,  Left  Hand  and  Scrotum  Prior  to  Making  Incisions.  Observe  that  the  knife 
is  thrust  Into  the  testicle  well  forward  on  tile  scrotum.  The  incision  is  made  by  a  single 
sweep  of  the  knife  backwards. 

knife  in  right  hand  begin  well  forward,  on  scrotum  and  with  two 
quick  bold  sweeps  of  the  knife  make  backward  slashes  which  will 
expose,  or  a  better  term  would  be  "drop,"  both  testicles  from 
the  scrotum  before  you  turn  loose.  These  slashes  should  be 
parallel  to  the  raphe  or  median  line.  Now  with  the  emasculator 
which  is  handed  you  by  a  second  assistant,  or  better  still  carried 
in  a  specially  constructed  pocket  in  your  overalls,  sever  the  sper- 
matic cords  as  high  up  in  the  flank  as  possible,  after  which  release 
the  animal.  If  you  have  been  dexterous  and  have  not  "loafed 
on  your  job"  you  have  consumed  the  whole  of  six  to  ten  seconds* 
time.  However,  if  you  have  been  engaged  as  long  as  fifteen  or 
twenty  seconds  you  need  have  no  remorse  of  conscience,  as  often- 
times it  takes — what  otherwise  would  be  considered  a  fairly  good 
veterinary  surgeon — as  long  as  twenty  minutes  to  finally  succeed, 
after  much  effort  and  a  great  fight,  in  removing  as  many  as  two 
testicles  from  the  scrotum  of  a  stallion  in  the  standing  posture, 
and  some  of  them  even  after  graduation  and  many  years'  ex- 


34  Animal  Castration 

perience  in  practice  cannot  do  it  at  all.  Console  yourself  with 
the  thought  that  there  are  others. 

Care  and  Treatment — See  page  28. 

Prognosis — See  page  28. 

Sequelae — See  under  proper  heading  in  subsequent  pages. 

Advantages  of  Operating  in  Standing  Posture — (1)  Conserva- 
tion of  time  and  energy  on  the  part  of  the  operator,  as  it  is  pos- 
sible for  an  experienced  and  dexterous  operator  to  castrate  a 
stallion  in  the  standing  position  in  six  to  fifteen  seconds'  time, 
provided  the  annual  behaves  well.  Whereas  in  the  recumbent 
posture  it  requires  from  six  to  fifteen  minutes  to  cast,  tie  and 
castrate.  It  is  much  easier  on  the  operator  to  castrate  in  the 
standing  posture  as  less  work  and  exertion  are  required.  (2) 
Safety  and  comfort  to  the  patient,  since  the  danger  of  casting 
and  tying  is  obviated  and  the  animal  is  not  exerted  or  "heated 
up"  near  to  the  extent  which  he  would  be  were  he  cast,  tied  and 
castrated  in  the  recumbent  posture.  (3)  By  castrating  in  the 
standing  posture — provided  same  is  done  with  dexterity — the  sur- 
geon makes  a  favorable  and  lasting  impression  upon  his  client, 
an  impression  which  will  "not  wear  off."  (4)  Since  the  operator 
is  not  called  upon  to  handle  dirty  ropes,  etc  immediately  before 
operating  and  the  operative  field  itself  is  not  on  or  in  close  ])rox- 
imity  to  the  manure  and  dirt — as  is  the  case  in  recumbent  posi- 
tion— there  is  no  doubt  but  what  less  womid  contamination  takes 
place  in  standing  method. 

Disadvantages — (1)  Danger  to  the  operator  has  been  heralded 
to  the  four  winds  of  this  country  as  argument  against  castrating 
stallions  in  the  standing  posture.  The  author's  twenty  years  or 
more  experience  with  operating  in  both  the  standing  and  recTun- 
bent  postures  leads  him  to  believe,  in  fact  know,  that  the  danger 
to  the  operator  has  been  highly  colored  and  over-exaggerated  with 
reference  to  castrating  in  the  standing  posture  unless  the  operat- 
ing surgeon  was  an  amateur  or  an  extremely  awkward  and  care- 
less person.  Of  course  it  could  not  reasonably  be  expected  that 
everyone  could,  cveu  ])y  time  and  practice,  become  an  adept  at 
such  an  undertaking.  In  order  to  be  a  success  it  is  necessary  for 
the  operator  to  possess  a  level  head,  a  steady  nerve,  plenty  (^f  self- 
confidence,  and  more  than  average  courage,  together  with  a  re- 


Animal  Castration  35 

serve  of  physical  strength  and  activity.  He  shonld  retain  his 
equilibrium  in  spite  of  any  untoward  accident  or  emergency  which 
may  chance  to  take  place.  Good  judgment  is  never  amiss  at  any 
stage  of  the  operation.  The  author  has  never  been  kicked  or  in- 
jured in  any  way  while  castrating  stallions  in  the  standing  pos- 
ture. He  cannot  say  as  much  in  relating  his  experience  operating 
in  the  recumbent  posture,  for  many  is  the  time  when  he  has  re- 
ceived the  kick  while  applying  the  hobble  straps  and  a  few  while 
releasing  the  animal.  (2)  Difficulty  of  securing  the  testicles  has 
been  urged  against  the  standing  operation.  Such  embarrassment 
is  never  encountered  if  the  testicle  has  descended  into  the  scrotum 
and  the  mere  fact  of  the  testicle  not  being  in  the  scrotum  is  a 
counter-indication  to  operating  in  the  standing  posture.  By  all 
means  and  at  all  hazards  cast  this  class  of  animals  and  castrate 
them  in  the  recumbent  posture.  (3)  Prolapse  of  bowel  or  mesen- 
tery from  the  scrotal  incision  on  account  of  previously  existing 
scrotal  or  inguinal  hernia.  A  careful  manual  examination  of  the 
scrotal  region  prior  to  operating  would  obviate  such  embarrass- 
ment to  the  operator  and  danger  to  the  patient.  If  you  decide 
to  operate  in  the  standing  posture  make  it  routine  practice  to 
examine  the  scrotum  prior  to  operation.  (4)  Impossibility  of 
operating  upon  many  wild  and  vicious  animals.  We  must  admit 
that  every  animal  cannot  be  castrated  in  the  standing  posture,  and 
foolish  indeed  would  the  surgeon  be  who  would  undertake  such 
a  hazardous  and  impossible  task.  If  you  encounter  such  an  animal, 
have  no  hesitancy  in  casting  and  operating  in  the  recumbent  pos- 
ture. Do  not  attempt  the  dangerous,  the  impracticable  or  the 
impossible.  Exercise  a  little  good  judgment  here  as  well  as  else- 
where in  the  dailv  affairs  of  life. 


36  Animal  Castration 

CHAPTER  II. 

CASTEATION  OF  THE  COLT. 

Definition — What  is  here  meant  by  castration  of  colts  is  im- 
sexing  male  animals  of  the  eqnine  species  less  than  twenty  months 
of  age. 

Objects  and  Indications — Same  as  stallion.     (See  page  14.) 

Age — The  testicle  does  not  usually  descend  into  the  scrotum 
to  a  noticeable  degree  until  the  colt  is  at  least  eight  or  ten  months 
old.  From  the  standpoint  of  danger  the  earlier  the  operation 
the  safer.  From  the  viewpoint  of  development  and  symmetry  it 
is  not  well  to  operate  too  early.  Viewing  the  problem  from  every 
angle,  the  preferable  age  at  which  to  castrate  a  colt  is  ten  to  twelve 
months.    However,  it  may  be  done  earlier  or  even  later. 

Season — Spring  and  early  fall. 

Preparation — Same  as  stallion.     (See  page  14.) 

Restraint — Since  colts  should  usually  be  castrated  in  the  re- 
cumbent posture — primarily  on  account  of  the  uncertainty  of  de- 
scent of  testicle  into  scrotum — it  becomes  necessary  to  cast  and 
tie  them.  Of  all  the  casting  harness  and  hobbles  used  for  this 
class  of  operation  there  is  no  doubt  but  what  the  "Miles'  Colt 
Hobbles"  possess  many  advantages  over  all  others.  Hence  the 
Miles  method  of  casting  colts  is  recommended  and  will  be  described. 

^'Farmer''  Miles'  MetJiod  of  Casting  a  Colt — Fig.  22  represents 
the  Miles'  colt  hobbles  applied  (first  position).  The  hobbles  of 
Miles'  consist  of  four  loop  hobbles  and  a  main  rope.  These  are  of 
the  loop  variety.  The  material  used  in  making  the  loops  may  be 
either  rawhide  (plaited),  leather,  or  rope.  These  hobbles  are  each 
from  fifteen  to  eighteen  inches  long  and  are  applied  by  looping. 
The  main  rope  is  three-fourths  inch  cotton,  and  eighteen  feet  long. 


Animal  Castration 


37 


Fig, 


Appli 


First  rosition. 


Upon  one  end  is  a  two-inch  metal  "D."  This  main  rope  is  also 
used  as  the  master  hobble.  It  will  be  observed  that  there  is  one 
hobble  rope  on  each  hind  pastern  and  two  hobble  ropes  on  off 
fore  leg— one  around  pastern  and  the  other  below  the  knee.  The 
main  rope  is  applied  around  pastern  of  near  fore  leg  (F).  It  is 
now  passed  across  through  hobble  ring  on  off  fore  pastern  (K), 
then  backward  to  off  hind  (L),  thence  across  to  near  hind  (M), 
and  back  to  hobble  ring  (N)  below  off  knee.  The  object  of  this 
arrangement  of  the  ropes  (two  hobbles  on  off  fore  leg)  is  that 
when  traction  is  made  on  free  end  of  main  rope  (O)  the  off  fore 
foot  is  raised  or  lifted  off  the  ground.  This  in  itself  unbalances 
an  animal  and  puts  it  to  a  decided  disadvantage,  besides  by  lift- 
ing the  off  fore  foot  the  animal  will  go  down  on  the  shoulder  of 
that  side  and  will  in  all  probability  receive  an  easy  fall.  The 
animal  is  cast  as  illustrated  in  Fig.  23  (second  position),  and 
secured  by  taking  two  or  more  half  hitches  with  the  main  rope 
around  uppermost  hind  pastern.  This  is  done  by  an  assistant. 
The  operator  stands  opposite  the  assistant  and  behind  the  animal 


38 


Animal  Castration 


Fig.  23 — Miles"  Colt  Hobbles — Second  Position. 


Fig.   24— Miles'   Colt  Hobbles— Third   Position. 


Animal  Casteation  39 

and  is  handed  the  main  rope  (W)  by  the  assistant  (after  it  is 
fixed  about  the  upper  hind  pastern).  The  rope  is  carried  over 
the  loins  and  under  the  colt,  thence  to  the  lower  hind  pastern. 
Now  by  rolling  colt  on  his  back  (Fig.  24,  third  position)  and  mak- 
ing downward  pressure  on  the  off  hind  foot  with  the  left  hand,  at 
the  same  time  drawing  the  rope  tight  by  upward  pull  with  the 
right  hand,  the  hocks  are  flexed  and  all  four  feet  brought  down 
close  to  the  abdomen. 

The  Miles'  method  affords  us  a  light,  portable,  strong,  con- 
venient, safe,  and  in  every  respect  an  efficient  and  satisfactory 
means  of  casting  and  securing  the  colt.  The  colt  is  held  balanced 
in  the  dorsal  position  by  an  assistant  on  each  side,  in  which  posi- 
tion the  field  of  operation  is  accessible  and  extremely  convenient, 
and  so  long  as  the  colt  is  balanced  on  back  he  is  absolutely  helpless. 

Instrunienfs — (1)  Emasculator:  same  as  stallion  (see  Figs.  5, 
6,  7,  8,  12  and  13).  (2)  Knife:  The  knife  reconmiended  for  colt 
castration  is  "Farmer"  Miles'  hook  knife  (Fig.  25).    Many  hook 


Fig.  25— "Farmer"   Miles'  All-Metal   Stiff  Handle  Hook   Castrating   Knife. 

knives  of  improper  design  and  inferior  construction  are  on  the 
market ;  on  this  account  it  is  well  for  the  reader  to  know  the  exact 
essentials  of  a  properly  designed  hook  knife.  The  main  essential 
is  that  the  cutting  surface  of  the  blade  be  at  an  angle  of  45  degrees 
to  the  handle  and  that  the  cutting  surface  be  sharp  up  to  the 
handle.  It  is  necessar}^  that  the  blade  cut,  not  tear.  With  a  blade 
thus  constructed  good  work  can  be  done.  The  blades  with  a  de- 
cided hook  are  never  satisfactory.  Such  knives  drag  or  tear 
through  the  tissues  instead  of  cut.  Avoid  them.  To  the  beginner 
a  hook  knife  is  awkward  to  handle ;  however,  after  some  practice 
he  usually  finds  it  to  be  an  indispensal)le  instrument. 

Anatomy — Same  as  stallion.     (See  pages  19-21.) 

Warning — Same  as  stallion.    (See  page  23.) 

Sterilization  of  Insfnuiients  and  Cleansing  Operator's  Hands — 
Same  as  stallion.     (See  page  24.) 


40 


Animal  Castration 


Operative  Technique — With  the  cult  cast  and  tied  and  balanced 
on  his  back  (Dorsal  position)  by  one  or  more  assistants  (see  Fig. 
25),  the  scrotum,  hands  of  the  operator,  etc.,  disinfected,  the  ani- 
mal is  now  ready  for  operation. 


Fig.  26— Castrating  the  Colt.  9,  Left  Hand;  10,  Scrotum;  11,  Beginning  of  Left 
Scrotal  Incision;  12,  End  of  Left  Scrotal  Incision;  i:!.  Beginning  of  Right  Scrotal  In- 
cision;  14,  End  of  Right  Scrotal  Incision;   15,  Knife;    16,  Right  Hand. 

Proceed  as  follows:  With  left  hand  (9)  grasp  sheath  (10) 
and  with  forward  and  upward  traction  stretch  the  scrotum  to 
the  extent  of  making  it  taut.  AVith  knife  (15)  in  right  hand  (16) 
begin  left  incision  (11-12)  well  forward  on  scrotum  (10)  and  ex- 
tending backward  for  31/2  to  4  inches.    The  right  incision  (13-14) 


Animal  Castration 


41 


is  made  likewise.  These  incisions  should  be  parallel  to  each  other, 
three-fourths  inch  on  each  side  of  the  raphe  or  "median  line" 
and  parallel  to  it. 

The  object  of  drawing  the  scrotum  upwards  is  to  form  a  cavity 
between  the  skin  and  subcutaneous  connective  tissue  of  scrotum 
above  and  the  scrotal  plesus  of  veins  below.  This  cavity  or  space 
protects  the  scrotal  plexus  of  veins  from  being  knicked  by  point 
of  the  knife  while  the  incisions  are  being  made.  Release  hold  on 
sheath  and  grasp  each  testicle  in  turn  and  with  a  knick  of  the 
knife  open  the  tunica  vaginalis  and  allow  the  testicles  to  escape. 


Fig.  27 — Castrating  the  Colt.     17,  Left  Hand;    IS,  Testicle;    19,  Spermatic   Cord, 
20,  Tunica  Vaginalis;    21,  Scrotum;   22,  Emasculator;    23,  Right  Hand. 


42  AXIMAL  CASrKATlON 

The  next  step  is  to  grasp  the  left  testicle  (18,  Fig.  27)  with 
the  left  hand  (17)  and  draw  testicle  upwards — at  direct  right 
angles  to  the  animal — at  the  same  time  producing  from  one  to 
two  pounds  traction  on  the  cord.  With  the  right  hand  (23)  apply 
the  emasculator  (22)  to  the  cord  (19)  and  force  instrument  well 
down  against  the  scrotum  (21)  in  such  a  manner  as  to  sever 
the  spermatic  cord  and  all  of  its  coverings  as  close  to  the  skin 
incision  as  possible.  The  right  testicle  is  removed  in  like  manner 
and  the  animal  released.  By  reference  to  Fig.  16,  page  24.  the 
reader  may  observe  the  exact  position  of  the  emasculator  on  the 
cord  and  what  structures  are  severed  in  operating. 

After  Care  and  Treatment — Same  as  stallion.     (See  page  28.) 

Prognosis — (See  page  28.) 


Animal  Caste ation  43 

CHAPTER  III. 

CASTRATION  OF  THE  MULE. 

Objects  and  Indications — Since  the  mule  is  a  hybrid  and  value- 
less for  service  as  a  breeding  animal  it  falls  to  his  lot  to  undergo 
castration  without  exception.  Without  castration — before  the 
age  of  two  years — the  mule  becomes  exceedingly  disagreeable  and 
troublesome  among  other  classes  of  live  stock  and  oftentimes 
vicious  and  dangerous  to  the  owner.  Apparently  the  only  object 
in  castrating  the  mule  is  to  cause  his  sexual  desire  to  permanently 
subside  to  the  extent  of  making  him  a  useful  farm  animal. 

Age — "Yearlings,"  never  later  unless  unavoidable. 

Season — Preferably  spring. 

Preparatiot — Same  as  stallion.    (See  page  14.) 

Restraint — Same  as  colt.     (See  pages  36-39.) 

Instruments — Same  as  colt.     (See  page  39.) 

Anatomy — Same  as  stallion.     (See  pages  19-21.) 

Warning — Same  as  stallion.     (See  page  23.) 

Sterilization  of  Instruments  and  Cleansing  Operator's  Hands — 
Same  as  stallion.    (See  page  24.) 

Operative  Teclmique — The  operative  technique  in  mule  castra- 
tion resembles  in  most  material  respects  that  of  colt  castration 
as  outlined  on  pages  36-41.  The  only  material  difference  being 
the  manner  in  which  the  coverings  of  the  spermatic  cord  are 
severed  and  the  extent  of  them  removed. 

With  the  mule  cast,  tied  and  balanced  on  his  back,  Dor- 
sal position  (Fig.  27)  he  is  ready  for  operation.  The  scrotal 
region  and  hands  of  operator  are  washed  with  Lysol  or  Cresol 
Compound  U.  S!  P.  in  the  strength  of  one  tablespoonful  to  the 
quart  of  water.  With  left  hand  (M)  grasp  the  sheath  (N)  and 
with  forward  and  upward  traction  stretch  the  scrotum  until  it 


44 


Animal  Castration 


l-iu.  Js  -Casirjiiiiiti  ihe  .Mule.     M,  Left  Hand;   N,  Scrotum;   O  P,  Scrotal  Incision; 
Q,  Knife;   R,  Right  Hand;    S,  Raphe  or  "Median  Line." 

is  taut.  With  knife  (Q)  in  right  hand  (R)  make  the  two  scrotal 
incisions  (O,  P)  beginning  well  forward  (O)  and  extending  back- 
ward (P)  from  31/4  to  4  inches.  These  incisions  should  be  three- 
fourths  inch  from  and  parallel  to  the  raphe  or  "median  line"  (S). 
Release  hold  on  sheath  and  grasp  each  testicle  in  turn  and  with 
a  knick  of  the  knife  open  the  tunic  A'aginalis  and  allow  the  testicles 
to  escape. 

After  the  testicles  are  released  from  the  tunica  vaginalis  one 
of  them  is  grasped  with  the  left  hand  (T)  (Fig.  29)  and  drawn  up- 
ward at  direct  right  angles  to  the  body  of  the  animal  by  making 
from  one  to  two  pounds  traction  on  the  cord.  With  the  right  hand 
(Y)  apply  emasculator  (Z)  to  the  cord  and  force  instrument  down- 
ward against  the  scrotum  (X)  in  such  manner  as  to  sever  the 
spermatic  cord  and  all  of  its  coverings  as  close  to  the  skin  incision 
as  possible.  See  to  it  that  you  cut  off  not  less  than  one  inch  of 
the  tunica  vaginalis  in  order  to  avoid  that  all  too  frequent  sequelae 


Animal  Castration 


45 


Fig.  29— Castrating  tlie   Mule.     T,  Left  Hand:    U,  Testicle;    V,  Spermatic   Cord; 
W,  Tunica  Vaginalis:   X,  Scrotum;   Y,  Right  Hand:   Z,  Emasculator. 


Fig.  30 — Proper  Position  of  the  Emasculator  and  Relation  of  Testicle,  Spermatic 
Cord,  Tunica  Vaginalis  and  Scrotum  in  Mule  Castration. 


46 


Axi^^iAL  (  'asthation 


of  mule  castration,  viz.:  hydrocele  ('^vater  bag"),  a  condition 
invariably  produced  by  severing  the  cord  below — with  mule  in 
standing  posture — the  tunica  vaginalis.  Of  course  the  opposite 
testicle  is  removed  in  like  manner  and  the  animal  released.  Figs. 
30  and  31  are  worthy  of  careful  study  on  the  part  of  all  who  con- 
template castrating  mules.  They  graphically  and  plainly  illus- 
trate all  the  important  essentials  in  handling  the  emasculator  in 
such  a  manner  as  to  avoid  hydrocele  ("water  bag"). 


Fig.  31 — Testicle  of  Mule  After  Removal.  A,  Tunica  Vaginalis  Covering  Spermatic 
Cord;  B  B,  Incised  Portion  of  Tunica  Vaginalis  Deflected  on  Cord.  It  will  be  observed 
that  at  least  one  inch  of  this  tunic  has  been  removed.     C,  Epididymus;   D,  Testes. 


After  Care  and  Treatment — Same  as  stallion.    (See  page  28.) 
Prognosis — Same  as  stallion  and  colts.    (See  page  28.) 


Animal  Castration 


47 


CHAPTER  IV. 

COMPLICATIONS  ENCOUNTERED  IN  CASTRATION. 

Inguinal  and  Scrotal  Hernia  {Rupture) . 

Definition — Inguinal  hernia  is  a  condition  where  a  loop  of  the 
intestine  and.  sometimes  mesenteiy  migrates  or  protrudes  through 
the  internal  abdominal  ring  into  the  inguinal  canal.    (See  Fig.  32.) 


,>^*; 


Fig.  32 — Inguinal  Hernia  (Rupture).  A  A,  Internal  Abdominal  Wall;  B,  Internal 
Abdominal  Ring;  C,  Spermatic  Cord;  D  D,  Intestine;  E,  Loop  of  Intestine  in  the 
Inguinal  Canal;  F,  Spermatic  Cord  in  the  Canal;   G,  Scrotum. 

Scrotal  hernia  is  a  condition  where  a  loop  of  the  intestine  and 
sometimes  mesentery  migrates  or  protrudes  through  the  internal 


48 


Animal  Castration 


abdominal  ring,  inguinal  canal  and  external  abdominal  ring  into 
the  scrotum.     (See  Fig.  33.) 


Fig.  33— Scrotal  Hernia  (Rupture).  A  A,  Internal  Abdominal  Wall;  B,  Internal 
Abdominal  Ring;  C,  Spermatic  Cord;  D  D,  Intestine;  E,  Loop  of  Intestine  in  the 
Scrotum;   F,  Spermatic  Cord  in  Inguinal  Canal;    G,  Scrotum;    H,  Testicle. 

Most  all  scrotal  hernias  were  originally  inguinal  hernias. 

Diagnosis — The  presence  or  absence  of  hernia  is  determined  by 
carefully  feeling  the  scrotum  and  close  scrutiny  of  its  size  and 
shape.  It  is  oftentimes — in  fact  most  times — impossible  to  diag- 
nose inguinal  hernia  except  on  post-mortem  examination. 

Indications  for  Operation — The  mere  fact  that  the  presence 
of  hernia  has  been  determined  is  sufficient  indication  for  opera- 
tion unless  there  be  a  good  reason  for  postponing  surgical  inter- 
ference until  a  later  date.  In  all  instances  the  operation  necessi- 
tates sacrifice  of  the  testicle  and  of  course  since  this  be  true  the 


Animal  Castration 


49 


ideal  time  to  operate  is  at  time  of  castration.  If  the  surgeon  is 
aware  of  the  presence  of  hernia  and  is  prepared  for  the  opera- 
tion, then  the  reduction  of  hernia  by  surgical  interference  is  a 
comparatively  easy  task.  However,  if  the  reverse  is  true — no 
knowledge  of  its  existence  and  non-preparedness — then  he  is  up 
against  what  is  referred  to  as  "the  real  thing,"  an  attitude  most 
of  us  have  been  caught  in  to  our  chagrin  and  sorrow.  So  long 
as  hernia  does  not  interfere  with  the  health  and  usefulness  of  a 
stallion  in  service  it  may  not  be  advisable  to  operate.  The  ideal 
age  to  operate  is  eight  to  twelve  months.  Oftentimes  scrotal 
hernias  in  "sucklings"  disappear  spontaneously  before  they  are 
a  year  old. 

Restraint — The  animal  should  be  cast  and  tied,  and  placed  in 
the  dorsal  position.  For  colts  the  ordinary  "Farmer"  Miles' 
method  of  casting  (Figs.  22,  23  and  24,  pages  36-39)  is  ideal. 
For  older  animals  more  secure  restraint  is  necessary,  such  as 
Knowles'  Casting  Harness,  described  and  illustrated  on  pages 
55-57. 

Instruments — (1)  Emasculator,  Figs.  5,  6,  7,  and  8.  (2)  Miles' 
hook  knife,  Fig.  25.  (3)  Curved  probe  point  Bistoury.  (4)  Me- 
dium size  curved  needle.  (5)  Chromicized  catgut  (fourteen  day) 
largest  size.  (6)  Needle  holder  (Richter's),  Fig.  34.  (7)  Small 
trocar  and  canula.  (8)  Curved  scissors  (six-inch).  Fig.  35.  (9) 
Haemostatic  forceps. 


Fig.  34. — Richter's  Needle  Holder. 


50 


Animal  Casteation 


Fig.  35 — Curved  Scissors    (6-incli). 


Freparation — Empty  the  intestinal  tract  by  withholding  food 
for  twenty-four  to  thirty  hours.  If  constipated,  oil  in  sufficient 
amount  to  purge  several  days  before  operating. 

Sterilization  of  Iiistni incuts  oiid  Clcaiisiuf)  Opo'ator's  Jfands — 
See  iDage  24. 

Operative  Teclniiqae — Cleanse  and  disinfect  field  of  operation 
by  washing  with  Lysol  or  Cresol  Compound  U.  S.  P.  in  the  strength 
of  one  tablespoonful  to  each  quart  of  water.  With  Miles'  hook 
knife  cautiously  make  incision  into  scrotum,  ])eing  careful  not  to 
open  the  tunica  vaginalis.  The  scrotal  incision  should  begin  well 
forward  and  extend  backward  for  five  to  six  inches  parallel  to 
the  raphe  or  "median  line''  and  one  to  one  and  a  half  inches 
from  it. 

Tlie  sac  (tunica  vaginalis)  containing  the  testicle  should  now 
be  isolated  or  detached  by  blunt  dissection  and  tearing  up  the 
inguinal  canal  to  within  about  two  inches  of  the  internal  abdom- 
inal ring. 

Before  proceeding  further  all  l)lood  vessels  of  sufficient  size 
should  be  ligated.  The  sac  (tunica  vaginalis)  should  now  be 
opened  and  the  testicle  taken  charge  of  and  held  with  one  hand 
while  the  loop  of  intestine  (J)  is  gradually  replaced  through  the 
internal  inguinal  ring  (P)  (See  Fig.  36)  into  the  abdominal 
cavity.  The  testicle  itself  is  now  removed  with  the  emasculator 
in  the  usual  way.  The  stump  of  spermatic  cord  (K)  is  now  placed 
into  the  abdominal  cavity  and  the  tunica  vaginalis  (L)  ligated 
with  chromicized  catgut  (fourteen  day)  largest  size  (M)  as  close 
to  the  internal  abdominal  ring  as  possible.  The  loose  portion  of 
the  tunica  vaginalis  is  now  removed  by  severing  below  the  liga- 


Animal  Castration 


51 


Fig.  36 — Diagramatic  Sketch  of  Operation  for  Inguinal  and  Scrotal  Hernia  (Rupture). 
I,  Internal  Abdominal  Wall;  J,  Loop  of  Intestine  Replaced  Into  the  Abdominal  Cavity; 
K,  Stump  of  Spermatic  Cord  from  Which  the  Testicle  Has  Been  Removed;  L,  Tunica 
Vaginalis  in  Close  Proximity  to  the  Internal  Abdominal  Ring;  M,  Ligature;  N,  Inguinal 
Canal;    P,   Internal  Abdominal  Ring. 


ture.  Sometimes  it  becomes  necessary  to  enlarge  tlie  internal 
abdominal  ring  before  the  hernia  can  be  reduced.  This  can  be 
readily  done  with  probe  point  bistoury  passed  up  the  inguinal 
canal.  If  loop  of  bowel  happens  to  be  distended  by  gas  it  should 
be  punctured  with  a  small  trocar  and  canula. 

The  scrotum  may  be  packed  with  sterile  gauze  if  considered 
advisable.     However,  scrotum  packing  is  not  usually  necessary. 

After  Care  and  Treatment — Same  as  castration.    (See  page  28.) 

Castration  of  the  Cryptorcliid  and  Monorcliid  {'^Ridgling"). 

Definition — A  cryptorcliid  is  an  animal  in  which  both  testicles 
have  failed  to  descend  into  the  scrotum. 

A  monorchid  is  an  animal  in  which  only  one  testicle  has  failed 
to  descend  into  the  scrotum. 

Classification — Since  the  degree  of  descent  of  the  testicle  varies 
in  different  animals  it  becomes  necessary  to  classify  "ridglings'^ 


52  Axi^FAL  Castration 

into  at  least  three  groups  or  classes.  They  were  formerly  classi- 
fied by  "Farmer"  Miles  as — 

Xo.  1.  Testicles  not  in  scrotum  hut  in  inguinal  canal.  Such 
testicles  can  be  felt  on  deep  pressure.     ("Low  flanker.") 

No.  2.  Testicles  high  up  in  inguinal  canal — too  high  to  be  felt 
even  upon  deep  pressure.     ("High  flanker.") 

No.  3.     Testicles  inside  abdominal  cavity. 

No.  4.  Testes  inside  abdominal  cavity  with  part  of  the  sper- 
matic cord  and  sometimes  epydidimus  protruded  through  internal 
abdominal  ring  into  the  inguinal  canal. 

No.  5.     Pathological  ("diseased")  testicles. 

While  the  above  classiflcation  by  Miles  is  not  what  may  be  termed 
anatomically  and  surgically  scientific,  it  was  nevertheless  valu- 
able in  arriving  at  the  exact  status  of  a  "Ridgiing"  case.  While 
acknowledging  the  value  of  the  work  done  by  my  first  teacher — 
"Farmer"  Miles — and  the  usefulness  of  his  classification  of  ridg- 
ling  horses  into  Nos.  1,  2,  3,  4  and  5,  nevertheless  such  classification 
was  crude  and  in  this  day  of  progress  and  development  would  not 
pass  muster  from  a  scientific  viewpoint.  The  anatomical  classifi- 
cation possesses  mau}^  advantages  and  will  be  adhered  to  in  hand- 
ling this  subject. 

]Miles'  No.  1  cannot  properly  be  classed  as  a  cryptorchid  ("  Ridg- 
ling")  in  any  respect. 

(a)  Supra  scrotal  is  a  condition  where  the  testicle  with  sper- 
matic cord  is  in  the  inguinal  canal,  however  too  high  to  he  felt 
even  on  deep  pressure.  ("High  flanker.")  This  is  the  class 
oftenest  encountered  in  young  animals  and  corresponds  with 
Miles'  No.  2.    The  testicle  is  usually  firm  and  fairly  well  developed. 

(b)  Intra-abdominal  is  a  condition  where  the  testicles  are  lo- 
cated inside  the  abdominal  cavity.  This  is  a  genuine  cryptorchid 
("Ridgling")  in  fact  as  well  as  in  name.  In  such  cases  the  tes- 
ticles are  usually  soft  and  flabby  and  not  of  the  characteristic 
shape  met  with  in  stallions.  This  varietv  corresponds  to  Miles' 
No.  3. 

(c)  Intra-inguinal  is  a  condition  in  which  the  testes  is  inside 
abdominal  cavity  with  a  portion  of  the  spermatic  cord  and  some- 
times epidid}TTius  high  up  in  the  inguinal  canal.     (See  Fig.  50, 


Animal  Castration  53 

page  67.)  This  corresponds  to  Miles'  No.  4.  Such  cases  are 
usually  very  confusing  to  the  operator;  especially  is  this  true  if 
the  operator  belongs  to  the  amateur  fraternity. 

(d)  Anomalous  cryptorchids  is  a  condition  wherein  abnomially 
developed  or  "diseased"  testicles  are  encountered,  viz.:  hyper- 
trophy, cysts — including  dermoid  and  dentigeous — solid  tumors 
(sarcocelous),  atrophy  and  adhesions  of  testicle  to  the  parietal 
peritoneum,  etc.  Some  of  the  above  enumerated  anomalies  and 
curiosities  encountered  in  cyptorchid  castration  complicate  the 
operative  technique  and  have  a  tendency  to  cause  the  operator  no 
little  anxiety,  annoyance  and  oftentimes  embarrassment. 

Objects  and  Indications — All  "Ridgling"  should  be  castrated 
for  the  principal  reason  that  they  are  sterile  as  breeding  animals 
and  a  public  and  private  nuisance  among  other  classes  of  live 
stock.  Some  of  them  even  acquire  viciousness,  in  which  event 
they  are  dangerous  both  to  the  owner  and  other  animals.  The 
mere  fact  that  the  testicle  is  inside  the  abdominal  cavity,  small, 
undeveloped  and  sterile  does  not  in  any  way  reduce  the  sexual 
desire  of  its  possessor.  On  the  other  hand  it  appears  that  sexual 
desire  is  abnormally  stimulated.  A  horse  with  undescended  tes- 
ticle is  as  undesirable  as  a  mare  affected  with  nymphomania. 
They  are  useless  as  service  or  breeding  animals.  There  is  no  argu- 
ment why  they  should  not  be  castrated  and  every  reason  why 
they  should. 

Diagnosis — By  all  means  secure  an  accurate  history  of  the  sub- 
ject if  possible,  as  this  is  a  necessary  adjunct  to  operating  satis- 
factorily and  successfully.     Ascertain  the  following: 

1.  If  any  previous  unsuccessful  attempt  has  been  made  to 
operate. 

2.  If  either  testicle  has  been  successfully  removed.  If  so,  on 
which  side  was  it  located  and  how  long  since  removal? 

The  information  obtained  is  not  always  trustworthy,  so  as  an 
additional  precaution  the  operator  is  not  justified  in  proceeding 
with  the  operation  until  he  has  personally  carefully  examined  the 
animal. 

1.  Search  scrotum  carefully  for  cicatrix  ("scar")  of  former 
operation,    If  the  operation  was  performed  by  either  the  ecraseur 


54  Axi:mal  Castration 

or  emasculator — some  time  previously — there  may  be  no  distinct 
scar  present. 

2.  Examine  inguinal  canal  for  stump  of  cord.  If  the  previous 
operation  was  performed  at  an  early  age  the  stump  of  cord  may 
be  atrophied  to  such  an  extent  that  its  presence  in  the  canal  cannot 
be  determined. 

If  after  questioning  the  owner  or  attendant  and  examining 
the  patient  you  are  still  in  doubt  as  to  which  testicle  is  unde- 
scended, the  proper  method  of  procedure  would  be  to  invade  the 
left,  as  four-fifths  of  all  monorehids  are  leftsided.  If  you  should 
make  a  mistake  and  invade  the  wrong  side,  proceed  at  once  to 
turn  the  patient  over  and  go  in  on  the  other  side.  The  diagnostic 
value  of  rectal  exploration  at  any  time  is  doubtful.  But  such 
rectal  examination  immediately  before  operating  is  bad  practice 
and  not  justified. 

Age — Ordinarily  the  question  of  age  is  not  one  left  to  the  choice 
of  the  operator.  He  is  forced  to  take  them  at  any  age  he  finds 
them.  It  is  not  well  to  operate  upon  a  ridgling  until  he  is  at  least 
two  years  old.  The  ideal  age  is  three  years,  as  at  this  time  the 
animal  is  larger  and  better  developed,  which,  of  course,  means 
that  there  is  much  more  room  in  the  inguinal  canal  and  groin  in 
which  to  work.  Besides,  at  three  years  old  the  abdominal  wall  is 
thicker  and  stronger  and  there  is  less  liability  of  rupturing  the 
internal  and  external  oblique  abdominal  muscles  with  the  operat- 
ing hand.  Ridglings  at  any  age  above  three  years  are  acceptable 
for  operation. 

Season — Preferably  spring  and  early  fall. 

Preparation — The  main  object  to  be  attained  in  preparing  the 
patient  is  to  have  an  unirritated  and  empty  alimentary  (intestinal) 
tract  at  time  of  operation.  This  is  usually  accomplished  by  with- 
holding food  for  thirty  hours  before  castration.  No  physic  should 
be  allow^ed,  as  an  empty  bowel  irritated  by  purgative  medication 
is  a  predisposing  cause  of  dangei"ous  sequelae  such  as  colic,  peri- 
tonitis, volvulus,  etc.  An  empty  alimentary  tract  is  desirable  on 
account  of  affording  greater  intra-abdominal  room  and  lessening 
the  possibility  of  bowel  protrusion  through  the  inguinal  canal. 

Restraint — There  are  manv  kinds  and  stvles  of  restraint  har- 


Animal  Castration 


55 


iiess  and  ropes  with  which  a  ridgiiiig  horse  may  be  cast  and  tied 
satisfactorily.  The  main  object  to  be  constantly  borne  in  mind 
is  the  fact  that  first  of  all  the  restraint  must  be  safe  and  secure. 
The  animal  must  be  tied  in  such  a  manner  that  the  latitude  for 
movement  is  minimized  as  much  as  possible.  Position  must  also 
be  considered.  One  of  the  simplest  and  most  satisfactory  casting 
harness  for  castration  of  "Ridglings"  is  that  of  Knowles'.  The 
Knowles'  harness  have  been  used  for  several  years  by  the  author 
with  satisfactorv  results. 


Fig.  37 — Knowles'  Casting  Harness  Applied. 

The  casting  and  securing  harness  illustrated  in  Fig.  37  were 
designed  by  W.  F.  Knowles.  These  harness  are  made  in  large  and 
small  sizes.  The  large  size  fits  horses  weighing  900  pounds  or  more,, 
and  small  size  harness  fits  those  of  from  400  to  900  pounds. 

This  apparatus  is  light,  compact,  and  convenient  to  carry. 
When  properly  used  it  affords  ample  restraint  for  all  ordinary 
purposes.  It  consists  of  a  flat  webbing  collar,  two  main  ropes 
and  two  hobbles.  The  collar  (B)  is  in  two  sections ;  each  section  is 
connected  on  each  side  of  the  horse  by  heavy  double  rings,  one  of 
which  is  of  special  design  to  afford  easy  passage  of  the  two  main 
ropes  (D,  G).     The  ropes  (D,  G)  are  each  five-eighths  inch  in 


56 


AXI.MAI,  ('AS'l'HA'noX 


diameter  and  thirty  feet  long'.  One  end  is  seeureiy  fastened  into 
the  inner  ring  of  the  weh])ing  breast  collar.  Ai'onnd  each  pastern 
(E,  H)  is  placed  a  webbing  hobble.  In  each  end  of  this  webbing 
hobble  is  fixed  a  specially  constrncted  metal,  ronnded  "D"  through 
which  the  ropes  pass.  To  apply  this  harness  the  breast  collar  is 
placed  over  the  head  and  adjusted  to  the  shoulders.  One  section 
fits  over  the  withers  and  the  other  section  is  dropped  down  below 
point  of  shoulders  (K).  The  free  end  of  the  ropes  (D,  G)  pass 
downward  to  and  through  each  "D"  of  webbing  hobble,  then  up- 
ward to  and  through  "D"  of  breast  collar.  If  desired  to  cast 
horse  on  off  side,  the  off  fore  foot  is  to  be  raised  and  secured  by 
some  form  of  knee  strap.  The  free  end  of  main  rope  on  near  side 
should  be  carj'ied  backward  over  back  and  held  by  two  assistants. 
The  free  end  of  main  rope  (I)  on  off  side  should  l)e  carried  for- 
ward, well  in  front  of  the  animal,  and  there  held  by  two  assistants. 
To  cast  the  animal  traction  is  made  on  each  rope,  and  at  the  same 
time  the  animal  is  forced  backward  a  step  by  assistant  in  charge 
of  the  head.  The  head  is  pulled  to  the  right  and  the  animal  is 
cast  on  off  side. 


I'i.^.  ;-.S — Animal  Cast  and  Secured   with   Kmnsli^ 


In  order  to  securely  tie  the  animal  after  he  is  cast  (see  Fig.  38) 
the  main  ropes  (N,  N)  are  fastened  around  pasterns  by  two  half 


Animal  Castration 


57 


hitches.  They  are  then  jjassecl  behind  hoclvs  (P,  P)  in  hgure  8 
fashion  a  conple  of  times,  after  which  fix  them  about  pasterns  (O, 
O)  by  half  hitches.  The  opposite  side  is  secured  likewise  after 
the  animal  is  turned  over.  See  to  it  that  the  hocks  are  completely 
flexed  and  that  the  feet  are  not  extended  too  far  forward.  After 
the  hind  legs  are  secured  apply  knee  strap  (M)  to  off  fore  leg. 
The  Miles'  spreaders  (Fig.  39)  are  now  applied,  after  which  the 
animal  is  secured  for  operation. 

Whlie  I  do  not  dispute  the  possibility  of  castrating  a  ''Ridg- 
ling"  horse  on  the  operating  table,  nevertheless  its  practicability 
is  seriouslv  doubted. 


Fig.  o9 — ^Miles'  Ridgling  Spreader: 


Position — Lateral  recumbent  position  with  side  of  undescended 
testicle  uppermost.  Hocks  completely  flexed.  Hind  feet  not  too 
far  forward  and  thigh  complete  abducted. 

Instruments  and  Equipment — (1)  Miles'  all-metal  hook  castrat- 
ing knife  (see  Fig.  25).    (2)  Peritoneum  perforator  (see  Fig.  40). 


Pig.  40 — Peritoneum  Perforator. 


58  ANi:\rAL  Castration 

The  peritoiieimi  perforator  referred  to  here  is  a  piece  of  nickel- 
plated  steel  wire  sixteen  inches  long  with  handle  on  one  end  and 
right  angle  hook  on  the  other.  This  hook  is  one  inch  in  length 
and  its  perforating  snrface  is  slightly  dulled.  The  function  of 
this  instrument,  as  its  name  indicates,  is  to  make  the  opening 
through  the  thin  abdominal  wall. 

(3)  Ecraseur.  The  most  satisfactory  ecraseur  yet  offered  to 
the  veterinary  profession  in  this  country  is  shown  in  Fig.  41. 
This  instrument  is  strong,  well  constructed  and  its  design  ideal. 
The  advantages  of  this  instrument  over  others  consists  of  an  ar- 


Fig.   41 — Dunn's   Ecraseur. 

rangement  by  which,  with  the  thumb  and  hiiger  of  one  hand  (the 
other  hand  left  free)  the -ecraseur  can  be  held,  and  the  slack  of 
the  chain  taken  up  at  once  without  drawing  out  the  screw  or 
lengthening  the  instrument. 

The  thumb-piece,  on  the  end  of  which  the  female  thread  is  cut, 
works  automatically,  engaging  the  screw  at  all  times  until  re- 
leased by  the  pressure  of  the  thumb;  this  insures  perfect  safety, 
as  the  chain  cannot  slip  from  imperfect  or  careless  adjustment, 
which  often  occurs  in  other  ecraseurs.  It  is  also  thoroughly  asep- 
tic, as  it  can  be  taken  apart  without  the  aid  of  a  screwdriver  in 
a  few  seconds'  time  by  a  half  turn  of  the  collar  near  the  handle. 
Made  with  or  without  the  improved  head.  Get  the  one  with  im- 
proved head. 

(4)  Surgeon's  needle  threaded  for  purpose  of  suturing  up 
scrotum  after  packing. 

(5)  Sterile  gauze  to  use  in  packing  scrotum. 

(6)  Carbolized  olive  oil  for  lubricating  parts. 

(7)  Antiseptic  solution  in  plentiful  amount.  As  a  precaution 
against  some  untoward  accident  or  emergency  it  is  well  to  fortify 
yourself  by  having  in  reserve  the  following:     (1)  Vulsellum  for- 


Animal  Castration  59 

ceps  (see  Fig.  55)  ;  (2)  haemostatic  forceps;  (3)  extra  ecraseur; 
(4)  needles  containing  ligatures  and  sutures;  (5)  trocar  and 
canula  (ordinary  horse  size). 

Anatomy — Same  as  for  stallion  castration.     (See  pages  19-21.') 

Warning — Before  beginning  to  operate,  diagnose  the  case  if 
possible.  Examine  inguinal  and  scrotal  regions  for  hernia  (rup- 
ture), abnormalities  in  development,  diseases  of  the  scrotum,  etc. 
Look  out  for  constitutional  diseases  which  would  have  a  tendency 
to  endanger  the  life  of  animal  or  interfere  with  convalescense. 
These  diseases  are  strangles,  influenza,  pneumonia,  pleurisy,  bron- 
chitis, catarrhal  fever,  purpura  hemorrhagica,  etc. 

Don't  thrust  your  whole  hand  through  the  abdominal  wall,  be- 
cause your  index  and  second  finger  will  do  enough  damage  to 
the  wall  and  besides  they  are  ample  inside  the  abdomen. 

Don't  explore  the  whole  abdominal  cavity  in  an  effort  to  locate 
the  testicle.  You  wouldn't  recognize  it  if  you  found  it.  Better 
feel  for  the  spermatic  cord — something  you  can  recognize  if  you 
feel  it — which  is  within  two  inches  of  the  abdominal  incision,  pro- 
vided 3^ou  puncture  the  abdominal  wall  at  the  right  place.  T.et 
the  testicle  take  care  of  itself  until  later. 

Take  your  time  and  do  the  operation  well  at  all  hazards. 

Be  careful  in  casting  and  tying  and  above  all  else  don't  get 
excited.  Remember  that  it  is  not  you  that  is  being  operated  upon. 
It  is  the  horse,  and  he  does  not  even  belong  to  you.  If  you  should 
happen  to  make  a  failure,  remember  that  you  are  not  the  only 
one  whom  such  a  misfortune  has  befallen. 

Sterilization  of  Instriiments — Same  as  for  castration  of  the  stal- 
lion.   (See  page  24.) 

Cleansing  and  Disinfecting  the  Field  of  Operation — Of  all  the 
operations  in  the  domain  of  veterinary  surgery  where  cleanliness 
stands  out  prominently  as  being  pre-eminentty  important  it  is  in 
"Ridgling"  castration.  With  tincture  of  green  soap,  warm  water 
and  scrub  brush  thoroughly  wash — by  diligent  scrubbing — the  in- 
guinal and  scrotal  regions,  also  inner  aspect  of  the  thighs.  After 
washing,  sponge  parts  with  absolute  alcohol.  Then  paint  scrotum 
with  tincture  iodine  and  allow  it  time  to  dry  before  making  in- 
cisions. 


60 


AxiMAi.  Castuatiox 


Operative  Technique  as  Applied  in  Ca.st rating  the  Intra-Ahdom- 
inaJ  ''Ridgling"  {Miles'  No.  3). 
(a)  Scrotat  Incision — AVith  rubber  glove  on  left  band  (R)  and 
Miles'  book  castrating  knife  (T)  in  tbe  rigbt  band  (S),  tbe  point 
of  sbeatb  (V)  is  grasped  with  tbe  left  (R)  and  traction  made 
upward  and  forward.  (See  Fig.  42.)  Beginning  well  forward 
on  scrotum  tbe  knife  is  drawn  backward,  making  incision  (U) 
tbi'ougb  skin,  sulieutaneous  C(mnective  tissue  and  dartos  only. 
Tbis  incision  (U)  sbould  be  five  incbes  long,  x)arallel  to  and  one 


Fig.  42— Making  Scrotal  Incision.     R,  Left  Hand;   S.  Right  Hand;  T,  Knife; 
V,  Scrotal  Incision;   V,  Point  of  Sheath. 

incb  to  tbe  side  of  rapbe  or  "median  line."  (See  Figs.  42  and  43.) 
Wben  tbe  incision  or  incisions  are  completed  remove  iul)l)('r  glove 
from  previously  wasbed  left  band  and,  if  necessary,  rewasb  botb 
bands  before  ])roceeding  fui'tber. 

(b)  Opening  and  Entering  the  Tngainal  Canal — Witb  tbe  four 
fingers  of  eacb  band,  placed  back  to  back,  separate,  by  tearing,  tbe 
tissues  down  to  tbe  external  abdominal  ring,  wbicb  is  tbe  entrance 
to  inguinal  canal.    Tbe  next  step  is  to  lubricate  tbe  scrotal  wound 


Animal  Castration 


61 


and  operating  hand  with  carbolized  olive  oil.    Then  proceed,  by  fix- 
ing fingers  in  shape  of  cone   (see  Fig.  44)  and  using  a  limited 


Fig.  43 — Scrotal  Incisions. 

amount  of  force,  to  open  and  enter  the  inguinal  canal  until  the 
internal  abdominal  ring  is  reached.  Remember  the  direction  of 
the  canal  is  upwards  and  backwards.  This  ring  is  our  landmark 
for  site  of  entering  the  alxlominal  cavity.  You  may  expect  to 
find  the  ring  at  a  distance  of  six  to  ten  inches  above  the  scrotal 
incision,  depending,  of  course,  ou  size  of  animal. 


Fig.  44— Position  of  Fingers  in   Opening  and  Entering  the  Inguinal  Canal. 


62 


Axi:\rAL  Castration 


Fig.  45 — Entering  the  Abdominal  Cavity  by  Perforating  the  Thin  Abdominal  Wall. 
A,  Right  Hand  in  the  Inguinal  Canal;  B.  Peritoneum  Perforator  in  Action;  C,  Incision; 
D,  Left  Hand  Manipulating  Perforator. 


(c)  E)iterhi(j  Abdoiiiiiidl  ('(iritjj  from  bujniual  Canal — With 
the  internal  abdominal  ring  as  one  guide,  we  select  a  site  one  inch 
above  and  one  inch  in  front  of  it,  where  we  proceed  with  peri- 
toneum perforator  to  rupture  through  the  thin  abdominal  wall, 
which  at  this  point  consists  of  the  transversalis  fascia  and  peri- 
toneum, as  we  are  now  above  the  upper  border  of  the  internal 
oblique  muscle.  This  affords  us  access  to  the  abdominal  cavity. 
This  perforation  should  not  exceed  oue  inch  in  length. 

(d)  Locating  the  Spcriiiafir  Cord — With  the  index  and  second 
finger  enlarge,  by  stretching,  the  alxlominal  i)erf  oration  sufficiently 
to  admit  both  fingers  (see  Fig.  46).  The  cord  (C)  is  almost  in- 
variably located  within  two  inches  of  the  abdominal  perforation 
(F).    To  find  the  cord,  pass  the  second  finger  downwards  against 


Animal  Castration 


63 


Fig.  46 — A  Diagramatic  Illustration  Showing  Important  Facts  Relative  to  "Ridgling" 
Castration.  This  and  the  next  cut  illustrate  far  better  than  words  could  describe  some 
of  the  covered  steps  of  the  operation.  A,  Rectum;  B,  Cord  of  Right  Descended  Testicle; 
C,  Cord  of  Left  Undescended  Testicle;  D,  Right  Internal  Abdominal  Ring;  E,  Left  In- 
ternal Abdominal  Ring;  F,  Incision  through  the  Abdominal  Wall  1  inch  above  and  1  inch 
in  front  of  the  Internal  Abdominal  Ring.  Observe  index  and  second  finger  protruding 
through  incision  searching  for  Spermatic  Cord.  G  G,  Internal  Abdominal  Walls;  H,  Un- 
descended Testicle  floating  loose  in  Abdominal  Cavity  attached  to  end  of  the  Spermatic 
Cord. 

internal  abdominal  wall  (G)  and  the  index  finger  directly  forward, 
slightly  upward  toward  center  of  abdominal  cavity.  By  bringing 
these  two  fingers  together  (Fig.  47)  the  cord  (C)  is  caught  be- 


64 


AXI^FAL  OasTHATIOX 


tweeii  them.  In  oi'der  to  distiiiguisli  it  (cord)  from  other  ab- 
dominal viscera  it  is  rnbl)ed  l^etween  the  fingers  and  the  vas  def- 
erens— a  hard,  wire-like  cord — is  plainly  felt.  Xothing  else  in- 
side the  abdominal  cavity  has  this  wire  cord  like  feel,  and  when 
it  is  felt  between  the  fingers  the  cord  is  positively  identified. 


Fig.  47— A,  Rectum;  B,  Cord  of  Right  Descended  Testicle;  C,  Cord  of  Left  Un- 
descended Testicle;  D,  Right  Internal  Abdominal  Ring;  E.  Left  Internal  Abdominal 
Ring;  F,  Abdominal  Perforation  through  which  is  protruded  index  and  second  finger 
of  the  operating  hand  grasping  cord  (C)  of  Undescended  Testicle;  G  G,  Internal  Ab- 
dominal Walls;   H,  Undescended   (Left)   Testicle. 


Animal  Castration 


65 


(e)  Removing  Testicle  From  the  Abdominal  Cavity — With  the 
cord  (C) — and  identified  as  such — between  the  two  fingers  mod- 
erate traction  is  made  and  the  unattached  end  of  the  cord  con- 
taining the  testicle  will  follow  through  the  abdominal  perforation 
(F)  into  the  inguinal  canal  and  out  through  scrotal  incision. 

Removing  Testicle  From  Cord — Grasp  testicle  with  left  hand, 
with  right  hand  apply  chain  or  ecraseur  to  cord.  With  two  pounds 
traction  on  cord  force  the  ecraseur  chain  well  up  in  scrotum — at 
right  angles  to  the  cord — take  up  slack  of  chain  and  proceed  to 
sever  cord. 


Fig.  48 — Removing  tlie  T 


L'  Irom  Cord.     E,  Testicle;   F,  Ecraseur. 


(f)  Final  Step — Wash  scrotum  and  surrounding  parts  with 
antiseptic  solution,  being  careful  to  remove  all  blood  clots,  etc., 
after  which  pack — scrotum  onl,y — using  one  yard  sterile  gauze, 


66  AxiMAi.  Castration 

and  suture  skin  incision  securely  with  uninterrupted  suture. 
Packing  the  scrotum  cannot  do  any  harm  and  there  is  a  possi- 
bility, in  fact  a  pro])a1)ility,  of  tins  precaution  saving  the  life  of 
a  patient.  Especially  is  this  true  should  colicky  pains  ensue  within 


Fig.  49— Testicle  of  a  "Ridgling"  Horse. 

twelve  hours  after  operating,  in  which  event  the  rolling  and  tumh- 
ling  of  the  animal  w^ould  have  a  tendency  to  cause  l^owel  protru- 
sion. As  a  precautionary  measure  I  cannot  too  strongly  recom- 
mend i^acking  the  scrotum  before  the  animal  is  allowed  to  rise 
to  his  feet.  If  a  monorchid,  your  job  is  completed ;  if  a  cryptorchid, 
turn  the  animal  over  and  proceed  to  repeat  the  operation  on  the 
other  side  without  delay.  Never  attempt  to  remove  both  testicles 
from  the  one  abdominal  opening,  as  in  doing  so  it  is  necessary  to 
enlarge  the  opening  sufficiently  to  admit  the  wdiole  hand;  such  a 
large  abdominal  wall  perforation  is  dangerous  and  such  procedure 
would  be  considered  bad  practice. 

T)ifra-Iu</iii)i(ir'Fi(JgU)ig/' 

This  is  the  variety  in  wdiich  the  testicle  (testes)  is  inside  the 
abdominal  cavity  while  a  portion  of  the  spermatic  cord  and  some- 
times the  epydidimus  is  in  upper  part  of  the  inguinal  canal,  of 
course  surrounded  by  the  tunica  vaginalis.  (See  Fig.  50.)  This 
coi'responds  to  Miles'  No.  4. 

This  is  the  class  which  is  calculated  to  confuse  the  inexperienced 
operator. 

Objects  and  indications,  age,  season,  preparation,  restraint,  ]^osi- 
tion,  instruments,  anatomy,  washing,  sterilization  of  instruments, 
cleansing  operator's  hands  and  disinfection  of  operative  field  are 
all  the  same  as  are  emi)loyed  in  castrating  the  intra-abdominal 
ridgling. 


Animal  Castration 


67 


Fig.  50 — Intra-Inguinal  Cryptorchid  (Bayer).  A,  Testes  Inside  Abdominal  Cavity; 
B  B,  Internal  Abdominal  Wall;  C,  Spermatic  Cord  Inside  Inguinal  Canal;  D,  Tunica 
Vaginalis;  E  E,  Dotted  lines  indicate  outlines  of  Spermatic  Cord;  P,  Internal  Abdominal 
Ring;    G,  Inguinal  Canal. 

Operative  Technique — The  incisions  are  made  and  the  scrotum 
and  inguinal  invaded  in  the  same  manner  as  that  employed  in  the 
intra-abdominal  variety. 

Location  of  the  Testicle — The  testicle  is  located  by  proceeding 
carefully  up  the  inguinal  canal,  at  the  same  time  making  strict 
search  for  the  tunica  vaginalis  containing  the  spermatic  cord  and 
sometimes  the  epidid^^nus.  As  soon  as  tunic  is  encountered  ex- 
amine it  carefully  in  order  that  no  mistake  in  diagnosis  be  made. 
When  satisfied  that  you  are  in  possession  of  the  tunica  vaginalis, 
pass  hook  knife  up  the  canal  sufficiently  high  to  knick  the  tunic 
and  allow  its  contents — be  they  what  they  may — to  escape  into  the 
inguinal  canal.  You  are  now  in  possession  of  the  spermatic  cord 
and  are  justified  in  applying  a  limited  amount  of  traction  in  an 
effort  to  bring  the  testicle  from  the  abdominal  cavity  through  the 
internal  abdominal  ring  into  the  inguinal  canal.     If  successful, 


68  Animal  Castratiox 

then  all  that  remains  to  be  done  is  to  sever  the  spermatic  cord  with 
the  ecraseur  and  allow  the  animal  to  rise  to  his  feet.  Oftentimes 
the  amomit  of  traction  which  can  safely  be  applied  to  the  cord 
will  not  suffice  to  bring  the  testicle  out  of  the  abdominal  cavity. 
The  proper  method  of  procedure  in  such  a  case  is  to  perforate 
the  abdominal  wall  with  the  peritoneum  perforator  (Fig.  40)  one 
inch  above  and  one  inch  forward  of  the  internal  abdominal  ring. 
With  the  index  and  second  finger  in  the  abdominal  cavity  return 
the  cord,  and  such  other  parts  of  it  or  the  testicle  as  are  in  the 
inguinal  canal,  to  the  abdominal  cavity,  after  which  the  cord  can 
easily  be  brought  through  the  abdominal  perforation  into  the  in- 
guinal canal  and  there  is  no  way  for  the  testicle  to  fail  to  follow. 
In  other  words,  we  make  an  intra-abdominal  "ridgling"  out  of 
the  intra-inguinal  ''ridgling"  and  castrate  him  as  described  in 
detail  on  pages  51-62. 

Supra  Scrotal  ''Bidgling" — This  is  the  variety  where  the  testi- 
cle and  spermatic  cord  are  in  the  inguinal  canal,  however,  too 
high  up  to  be  felt  even  on  deep  pressure  ("High  flanker").  This 
class  is  the  usual  one  encountered  in  young  animals,  and  corre- 
sponds to  Miles'  No.  2. 

Not  being  in  possession  of  knowledge  which  would  indicate  to 
us  in  advance  that  the  testicle  is  not  actually  in  the  abdominal 
cavity  we  are  forced  to  proceed  accordingly  and  prepare  patient, 
sterilize  instruments,  cast  and  tie,  disinfect  field  of  operation, 
make  scrotal  incisions,  invade  scrotum  and  inguinal  canal,  the 
same  as  we  would  for  a  "ridgiing"  of  the  intra-abdominal  va- 
riety. However,  encountering  the  tunica  vaginalis  containing  the 
testicle  high  up  in  the  inguinal  canal — outside  of  abdominal  cav- 
ity— we  are  spared  the  eifort  and  the  animal  the  danger  of  per- 
forating the  abdominal  wall.  All  that  is  necessaryy  to  be  done  is 
to  pass  the  hook  knife  u]^  the  canal,  knick  the  tunica  vaginalis, 
allow  the  testicle  to  escape,  sever  the  cord  with  emasculator,  and 
allow  the  animal  to  rise  to  his  feet. 

Secondary  Operation — Oftentimes  a  previous  attempt — by  an 
incompetent  operator — has  been  made  to  remove  an  undescended 
testicle.  In  such  cases  the  scrotum  and  groin  are  filled  with  sear 
tissue  to  the  extent  of  complicating  the  entrance  to  inguinal  canal 
and  abdominal  cavity  and  otherwise  making  the  operation  diffi- 
cult, unpleasant  and  unsatisfactory.     In  such  cases  the  conva- 


Animal  Castration  69 

lescence  is  prolonged  besides  the  mortality  is  greater  than  it  would 
have  been  had  this  unsuccessful  previous  attempt  not  been  made. 
In  operating  upon  this  class  of  cases  the  scrotum  is  entered  in 
the  usual  way,  after  which  cut  through  and  break  down  scar 
tissue  in  the  canal  until  the  internal  abdominal  ring  is  reached. 
In  doing  this  it  often  becomes  necessary  to  control  j^rof use  hemor- 
rhage by  ligation.  When  the  internal  abdominal  ring  is  reached 
we  use  it  as  a  landmark  and  i3roceed  to  finish  the  operation  in  the 
usual  manner.    Such  cases  are  referred  to  as  "Repeats." 

(d)  Anomalous  ''Ridgling'' — This  is  the  variety  in  which  path- 
ological ("diseased")  testicles  are  encountered,  and  corresponds 
to  Miles'  No.  5.  The  diseased  conditions  most  often  observed  are 
as  follows:  Hypertrophy,  Cysts — including  dermoid,  simple  se- 
rous, and  dentigeous  varieties — Solid  Tumors  (Sarcocelous),  etc. 
In  operating  upon  "ridglings"  belonging  to  this  class  the  same 
general  principles  are  employed  as  apply  in  castrating  intra- 
abdominal "ridgiings"  with  exception  of  size  of  the  perforation 
through  the  abdominal  wall  and  methods  of  removing  the  testi- 
cle therefrom.  Instead  of  making  a  perforation  only  sufficiently 
large  to  admit  two  fingers,  it  is  usually  necessary  to  make  one 
that  will  admit  the  whole  hand.  When  cystic  testicles  are  encoun- 
tered it  oftentimes  becomes  necessary  to  free  them  of  their  fluid 
contents  by  use  of  trocar  and  canula  before  they  can  be  withdrawn 
through  abdominal  incision.  In  removing  large,  solid  tumors  which 
are  too  voluminous  to  be  brought  down  the  inguinal  canal  then  the 
flank  method  of  operating  must  be  resorted  to.  The  operative  tech- 
nique must  be  modified  step  by  step  as  the  circumstances  and  con- 
dition met  justify.  The  operator  must  solve  the  problems  as  they 
arise.  No  fixed  modus  operandi  applicable  to  such  pathological 
conditions  can  be  intelligently  outlined.  It  is  "up  to  the  individ- 
ual operator,"  and  my  best  advice  is  for  you  to  "go  to  it"  and 
do  your  best. 

After  Care  and  Treatment — Place  animal  in  a  sanitary,  well- 
bedded  box  stall  immediately  after  operation  is  completed.  Halter 
head  up  in  such  manner  as  to  prevent  him  from  lying  down  for 
24  hours.  If  suffering  severe  pain  (colicky)  1  ounce  fluid  extract 
Cannabis  Indica  may  be  given  in  capsule  at  2-hour  intervals.  Al- 
low plenty  of  water,  but  no  feed  during  first  12  hours.    At  the  ex- 


70  Axi:\rAL  Castration 

piratiuii  of  24  liuurs  i-eiiiuve  packing,  unhalter  animal,  and  if 
possible  turn  him  to  pasture.  Turning  to  pasture  is  advocated  for 
two  reasons,  viz. :  first,  for  exercise,  which  is  a  very  essential  part 
of  the  after  treatment;  second,  to  get  the  patient  away  from  the 
dirt  and  manure  around  the  barnyard  and  stable,  thus  avoiding 
the  greatest  danger  of  wound  contamination. 

Moderate  daily  exercise  is  essential  even  should  it  l^ecome  neces- 
sary to  force  the  patient  to  take  it.  Violent  exercise  is  harmful, 
and  is  not  called  for  at  any  stage  of  the  game.  Usually  as  soon  as 
the  swelling  appears  and  the  soreness  develops — the  very  time 
they  need  exercise  most — there  is  a  tendency  on  part  of  the  ])a- 
tient  to  stand  still  in  one  place  for  hours  without  moving.  Should 
such  happen,  the  animal  must  be  led  in  a  walk  at  end  of  halter 
rein  about  a  mile  morning  and  night  until  after  the  eighth  or 
ninth  day.  If  lips  of  skin  wound  adhere  together  in  such  man- 
ner as  to  interfere  with  free  inguinal  and  scrotal  drainage,  then 
the  parts  and  the  operator's  fingers  should  be  thoroughly  washed 
and  the  scrotum  opened,  after  which  irrigate  the  wound. 

Keep  bowels  lax  by  bran  mashes  and  green  food. 

Sequelae— ^ei:>tiG  Infection  (see  page  74).  Tetanus  (see  page 
74).  Abscess  of  Scrotum  and  Inguinal  Canal  (see  page  74). 
Colic  (see  page  77).  Prolapse  of  Intestine  (see  page  76).  In- 
juries from  Casting  (see  page  76).  Peritonitis  (see  page  77). 
Primary  and  Secondary  Hemorrhage  (see  page  79).  Oedema  of 
Sheath  and  Ventral  Surface  of  Abdomen  (see  page  79).  Para- 
])himosis  (see  page  81).  Azoturia  (see  page  77).  Schirrous  Cord 
(see  page  82.) 

Be)iiarK's — If  the  foregoing  illustrations  and  description  of  the 
"ridgling"  operation  are  not  plain  and  self-explanatory,  then  the 
author  nuist  confess  that  he  is  incapable  of  imparting  knowledge 
or  information  of  this  character.  An  extra  effort  was  ])urposely 
and  honestly  made  to  dispense  with  much  superfluous  "stuff" 
often  ternKHl  "information"  widely  used  by  some  in  describing 
the  modus  operandi  of  "ridgling"  castrati(m.  The  reader  is  here 
assured  that  the  author's  only  object  was  to  level  the  technique 
down  to  a  plain,  solid,  practical  basis  in  order  that  this  most  nec- 
essary economic  operation  could  be  learned  and  more  generally 
practiced  for  the  benefit  of  mankind  in  general  and  the  American 
horse  raising  industr}^  in  particular. 


Animal  Castration  71 

Orchitis — Both  acute  and  chi'onic  orchitis  are  not  infrequently 
encountered  in  castration  operation. 

Definition — Inflammation  of  the  testicle. 

Symptoms— (a)  Ante  Orchitis— Swelling  of  testicle  accompa- 
nied by  heat,  also  pain  on  pressure.  Arching  the  loins,  stiffness 
and  straddling  gait  are  usually  observed,  (b)  Chronic  Orchitis — 
Enlargement  and  hardening  of  the  testicle  accompanied  1)y  adhe- 
sion of  that  organ  to  the  tunica  vaginalis. 

Advisahilitij  of  Castration — (a)  Acute  Orchitis— When  an  acute 
case  of  orchitis  is  encountered  and  its  presence  recognized  before 
the  scrotum  is  opened  it  is  always  advisable  to  postpone  operation 
until  a  later  date  in  order  to  give  the  inflammation  time  to  subside. 

(b)  Chronic  Orchitis — There  is  no  special  reason  why  an  animal 
cannot  be  safely  castrated  while  affected  with  chronic  orchitis, 
even  though  the  case  be  an  aggravated  one.  In  such  event  the 
testicle  itself  would  be  quite  voluminous  in  size  and  completely 
surrounded  by  adhesions  firmly  connecting  it  to  the  tunica  vag- 
inalis. The  method  of  procedure  when  such  a  complication  as  this 
is  encountered  is  to  proceed  as  you  would  in  castrating  a  stallion 
in  normal  condition,  with  the  exception  that  it  will  he  found  neces- 
sary to  detach  the  testicle  from  the  tunica  vaginalis  by  tearing 
and  blunt  and  sharp  dissection  of  the  adhesions.  Sometimes  the 
hemorrhage  from  blood  vessels  in  the  tunic  is  quite  profuse  and 
must  be  controlled  by  hemostatic  forceps  and  ligatures. 

Adhesions — See  Chronic  Orchitis  above. 

HERMAPHRODITE. 

Definition — An  animal  affected  with  hermaphrodism,  a  condi- 
tion in  which  both  sexes  are  manifested. 

Objects  and  Indications — In  those  cases  of  hermaphrodism  in 
which  the  male  genitals  are  most  developed  the  animal  will  have 
the  same  habits  and  exhibit  most  of  the  objectionable  qualities 
observed  in  the  "ridgling."  In  such  cases  it  is  oftentimes  ad- 
visable to  undertake  the  removal  of  the  testicles.  In  fact,  the  vet- 
erinarian is  called  upon  to  perform  this  operation  much  oftener 
than  is  usually  imagined. 


72 


Animal  Castration 


A^e— Same  as  castration  of  the  stallion.     (See  page  14.) 

Season — Spring  and  fall. 

Preparation— ^ame  as  castration  of  the  stallion.    (See  page  14.) 

Restraint — Same  as  castration  of  the  "ridgling."  (See  page 
54.) 

Anatomy — The  general  anatomy  of  the  parts  is,  of  course,  the 
same  as  that  of  the  stallion.  (See  pages  19-21.)  However,  the 
testicles  in  this  class  of  animals  are  indefinitely  located.  There  is 
no  hard  and  fast  rule  with  reference  to  their  location  which  would 
be  a  definite  guide  in  finding  them.  They  are  usually  outsfde  the 
abdominal  cavity.    Most  frequently  in  the  inguinal  canal,  but  in 


Fig.   51 — Hermarhrudiif    lloibci. 


Animal  Castration  73 

some  instances  they  are  in  posterior  part  of  scrotum.  Figure  51 
illustrates  one  of  the  author's  cases  where  one  testicle  was  high 
up  in  the  inguinal  canal  and  the  other  in  the  scrotum. 

Instruments— '^2cmQ  as  castration  of  the  *'ridgling."  (See 
pages  57-59.) 

Position — ^Dorsal. 

Sterilization  of  Instruments  and  Cleansing  Operator's  Hands — 
Same  as  castration  of  the  stallion.    (See  page  24.) 

Operative  Teclmiqiie — With  animal  cast  a  careful  search  should 
be  made  in  every  conceivable  direction  and  in  every  logical  loca- 
tion for  the  testicles.  If  they  can  be  felt  then  the  operation  is 
greatly  simplified.  If  they  are  concealed  then  the  proper  course 
to  pursue  is  to  open  the  scrotum  and  proceed  up  the  inguinal  canal 
as  you  would  in  castrating  a  ' '  ridgling. ' '  When  found  the  testicles 
should  be  brought  out  of  scrotal  incision  provided  the  spermatic 
cords  are  not  too  short  to  permit  it.  If  cords  are  short,  then  pass 
the  ecraseur  up  the  canals  and  sever  them. 

After  Care  and  Treatment— ^sune  as  ''ridgling."  (See  page 
69.) 


74  AxiMAL  Castkatiox 

CHAPTER   VI. 

SEQT^ELAE  OF  CASTKATIOX. 

Septic  /^//V'cf/o;/— Coiitaniiiiatioii  of  the  wound  cither  during 
operation  or  afterwards  may  result  in  Septicaemia,  Pyaemia, 
Peritonitis,  Tetanus,  Abscess,  etc. 

Abscess  of  Scrofiou  (Did  Inguinal  Canal — This  condition  arises 
as  a  consequence  of  septic  infection  associated  with  the  skin  inci- 
sions adhering  together  too  early  after  the  ox)eration. 

Treatment — Evacuation  by  lancing  in  such  site  and  manner  as 
to  afford  free  drainage.  Followed  by  daily  irrigation  with  any 
reliable  antiseptic  solution  is  the  extent  of  treatment. 

Tetanus  ("Lock  Jaw")  is  the  most  frequent  sequelae  of  cas~ 
tration  in  the  Southern  States,  and  from  all  information  at  hand 
I  am  inclined  to  believe  that  this  sequelae  is  no  less  frequent  in 
other  sections  of  the  United  States. 

Cause — We  know  that  tetanus  is  caused  by  the  Tetanus  Bacillus 
gaining  access  to  the  wound.  This  may  take  place  either  at  time 
of  operation  or  later.  Whenever  a  case  of  tetanus  develops  after 
castration  the  owner  will  invariably  censure  the  operator.  How- 
ever, experience  has  led  me  to  conclude  that  the  operator  should 
be  held  blameless  in  the  great  majority  of  instances.  At  least 
ninety  per  cent  of  animals  which  dcATlop  tetanus  after  castration 
contract  the  infection  from  lying  down  in  manure  and  dirt,  thus 
contaminating  the  wound,  after  the  actual  operation  has  been 
performed.  In  every  castration  o])eration  there  is  a  ])ossibility 
of  post-operative  infection. 

Period  of  I))cuhation — The  period  of  incubation  varies  fi'om 
8  to  30  days. 

Symptoms — Stiffness  and  contraction  of  all  the  voluntary  nnis- 
cles,  more  especially  those  of  the  tail  and  jaws.  As  a  result  of 
this  muscular  stiffness  the  tail  and  head  are  i)rotruded,  the  jaws 
stiff — partial  or  comi)lete — straddling  and  awkward  gait.  When 
the  head  is  raised  the  nictitating  membrane  ("haw")  protrudes 
over  the  eyel)all.    (See  Fig.  52.) 


Animal  Castration 


75 


Fig.  52— A  Colt  with  Tetanus   18  Days  After  Castration. 


Treat iitoif — Is  both  prophylactic  and  curative.  Prophylactic 
treatment  consists  in  the  administration  of  1,500  units  of  tetanus 
antitoxin  immediately  after  each  castration  operation. 

Curative  treatment  consists  of  casting  the  animal,  opening  up 
the  scrotal  wound  and  swabbing  it  out  thoroughly  with  tincture 
of  iodine,  afer  which  place  him  in  a  quiet  box  stall  away  from 
other  live  stock  and  noise  and  administer  .30  grains  powdered  ex- 
tract Cannabis  Indica  three  times  a  day.  The  diet  should  consist 
of  sloppy  foods. 

MortaJitij — The  mortality  will  vary  from  30  to  75  per  cent. 

Prolapse  of  the  Onieutum — While  prolapse  of  the  omentum  is 
a  rare  sequelae  of  castration,  nevertheless,  it  does  sometimes  occur, 
and  when  it  does  take  place  prompt  and  heroic  measures  in  the 
way  of  treatment  are  imperative  if  the  life  of  the  animal  is  to  be 
saved.  Usually  when  the  omentum  protrudes  from  the  scrotal 
incision  it  is  simply  a  forerunner  of  what  is  to  happen  later,  viz. : 
protrusion  of  the  intestine  and  death  of  the  animal  unless  intelli- 
gently directed  relief  measures  are  promptly  institued. 


76  Animal  Castration 

Operative  Tecluiique — Cast  and  secure  patient  in  Dorsal  posi- 
tion, after  which  cleanse  parts  and  hands  of  the  operator  by  care- 
fully and  thoroughly  washing  with  antiseptic  solution.  Sever 
protruding  portion  of  omentum  with  the  emasculator,  after  which 
replace  that  portion  which  remains  in  the  inguinal  canal  back 
through  the  internal  abdominal  ring  into  the  abdominal  cavity. 
If  there  is  evidence  of  the  internal  abdominal  ring  being  abnor- 
mally enlarged  it  is  safest,  in  fact  advisable,  to  gather  up  the  tunica 
vaginalis  and  ligate  it  as  near  the  internal  abdominal  ring  as 
possible  with  chromicized  catgut  (14  day)  large  size.  Proceed 
same  as  for  inguinal  and  scrotal  hernia,  pages  47-51.  If  thought 
advisable  there  is  no  special  objection  to  packing  scrotum  with 
sterile  gauze  and  suturing  up.  Remove  sutures  and  packing  in 
24  to  30  hours  and  irrigate  the  canal  and  scrotum  once  daily  for 
8  days  with  Lysol  or  Cresol  Compound,  U.  S.  P.,  in  the  strength 
of  1  tablespoonful  to  each  quart  of  water.  Daily  exercise  at  pas- 
ture or  to  halter  is  advisable. 

Prolapse  of  Intestine — This  is  another  rare  though  dangerous 
and  annoying  sequelae  of  castration,  one  which  is  always  fatal 
unless  treated  promptly  and  properly. 

Operative  Tecliuiquc — Same  as  outlined  above  for  treatment 
of  prolapse  of  omentum  with  the  exception  that  if  the  loop  of 
intestine  is  distended  by  gas  it  should  be  allowed  to  escape  by 
use  of  small  trocar  and  canula.  If  internal  abdominal  ring  is  con- 
tracted or  too  small  to  permit  return  of  intestinal  loop  then  it  be- 
comes necessary  to  enlarge  the  ring  (Kelotomy)  by  using  probed 
point  bistoury. 

In  juries  as  Result  of  Casting — It  is  possible  for  the  animal  to 
receive  halter  burns,  lacerations  and  abrasions  of  different  kinds. 
Rupture  of  muscles  and  tendons  sometimes  occur.  The  vertebrae 
and  other  bones  may  become  fractured.  Some  horses  present  rad- 
ical paralysis  as  a  sequelae  of  casting,  while  others  become  ex- 
hausted and  never  rise  after  being  released.  The  correct  treat- 
ment of  the  above  will  be  left  to  the  judgment  of  the  operator. 
They  are  mentioned  here  more  as  a  warning  to  him  to  exercise 
care,  good  judgment,  and  discretion  in  manipulating  his  restraint 
technique  than  for  any  other  reason.  "Safety  first"  should  be  the 
watchword. 


Animal  Casteation  77 

Colic — Post-operative  colic  characterized  by  abdominal  and 
scrotal  pain,  and  not  infrequently  by  more  or  less  flatulence  is  a 
by  no  means  rare  occurrence,  especially  in  old  stallions  and  crypt- 
orcMds. 

Treatment — Choral  hydrate  or  fluid  extract  Cannabis  Indica  in 
1  ounce  doses  at  2-hour  intervals  until  pain  subsides. 

Peritonitis — Septic  infection  is  the  direct  cause  of  peritonitis 
as  a  sequelae  of  castration.  The  infection  can  be  introduced  at 
time  of  operation  by  contaminated  instruments  or  hands  of  the 
operator  or  it  may  be  of  post-operative  origin  as  a  result  of  wound 
infection  from  manure  and  dirt  in  barnyard  or  pasture. 

Peritonitis  develops  most  often  as  a  sequelae  of  cryptorchid 
C'ridgiing")  castration  than  otherwise.  It  is  one  of  if  not  the 
most  serious  sequelae  of  castration. 

Symptoms — Peritonitis  as  a  result  of  sepsis  usually  ensues  2 
to  5  days  after  operation.  Its  development  is  characterized  by 
chilly  sensations,  indisposition  to  move  about,  and  in  the  event 
of  moving  there  is  a  well  marked  stiffness  and  soreness  of  gait. 
Restlessness,  pawing  with  the  fore  feet,  and  striking  at  abdomen 
with  hind  ones.  Abdomen  and  flanks  tucked  up  and  decidedly 
rigid.  Constipation  is  usually  evident,  and  colicky  pains  may  be 
shown.  Tenderness  on  pressure  to  the  abdominal  wall,  partic- 
ularly shown  when  this  pressure  is  made  in  the  flank  region.  Ele- 
vated temperature  (102  to  105  degrees  F.),  quick  breathing,  hard 
and  wiry  pulse.  If  death  does  not  ensue  in  a  short  time,  there  is 
usually  an  extensive  effusion  of  fluid  in  the  abdominal  cavity. 

Treatment — Purgatives  should  never  be  administered.  If  nec- 
essary to  secure  bowel  movement  better  resort  to  and  depend  en- 
tirely upon  enemas.  To  allay  the  pain  there  is  nothing  better  than 
tincture  opium  1  ounce  given  in  capsules  at  intervals  of  4  hours. 
A  mustard  plaster  applied  to  abdominal  wall  is  indicated  in  the 
majority  of  cases. 

Progn  osis — Unfavorable. 

Azoturia — This  is  a  disease  caused  hy  hyper-nutrition  and  lack 
of  bodily  exercise,  the  development  of  which — as  a  sequelae  of 
castration — is  extremely  embarrassing  to  say  the  least  of  it.  Azo- 
turia never  develops  where  daily  exercise  either  at  work  or  in 
pasture  is  allowed.    However,  with  animals  that  have  been  well 


78  Axi:mal  Castratiox 

fed  and  kept  confined  in  stall  it  is  a  condition  which  we  may  en- 
connter  at  any  time  when  casting  and  confining  snch  animal. 

On  acconnt  of  the  danger  of  azotnria  it  is  well  to  know  whether 
the  animal  has  had  snfficient  exercise  before  yon  nndertake  to 
operate. 

Sfjniptoni.s — After  the  operation  is  completed  and  the  restraint 
apparatus  removed  the  animal  may  fail  to  rise  to  his  feet  alto- 
gether, or  upon  rising  may  be  stiff  in  one  or  more  legs — most  fre- 
quently the  hind  legs — perspiring  freely,  evincing  pain  by  pawing, 
and  restlessness.  If  urine  is  voided  we  observe  the  characteristic 
''coffee  color."  Swelling  and  rigidity  of  muscles  of  haunch  (Grlu- 
tius  Maximus)  knuckling  in  hind  ankles,  etc.,  are  diagnostic  symp- 
toms of  this  affection. 

Prevention — Daily  exercise. 

Treatment — Catheterization.  Stinndating  liniments  rub])ed  on 
affected  muscles.  Internally,  F.  E.  belladonna  V2  ounce,  sweet 
spirits  nitra  1  ounce,  in  capsules,  at  2-hour  intervals.  An  aloes 
purge  is  sometimes  beneficial.  If  the  case  is  a  mild  one  and  the 
animal  can  stand  upon  its  feet  it  is  advisable  to  halter  head  up 
to  prevent  lying  down. 

POST-OrERATIVE  HEMOERHAGE — PRIINIARY  AND  SECONDARY. 

(a)  Prhuarij  HcniorrJuujc — -May  ensue  immediately  after  the 
operation  from  failure  of  emasculator  to  close  the  spermatic 
artery  or  from  the  scrotal  plexis  of  veins  being  severed  with 
point  of  knife  at  time  incision  is  made. 

Treatment — It  is  onlv  in  extremely  rare  instances  that  it  be- 
comes necessary  to  artificially  control  hemorrhage  of  this  source 
and  character.  Nature  wdll,  as  a  rule,  relieve  the  surgeon  of  such 
responsibility,  provided  he  will  be  patient  for  20  to  30  minutes 
and  allow  her  time  to  do  it.  It  is  more  often  necessary  to  treat 
the  owner  while  his  animal  is  bleeding  than  it  is  to  treat  the 
animal  itself.  During  twenty-one  years'  experience,  in  which 
time  more  than  14,000  stallions,  colts  and  mules  were  castrated, 
not  a  single  animal  died  as  a  result  of  primary  hemorrhage,  and 
not  a  single  cord  was  ligated  nor  a  scrotum  packed.  If  you  pro- 
cure a  properly  constructed  emasculator  the  next  thing  is  to 
impose  the  utmost  confidence  in  it,  in  which  event  you  will  not 


Animal  Castration  79 

become  unduly  alarmed  every  time  a  stallion  or  colt  bleeds  freely 
for  a  few  minutes  after  castration.  Eemember  that  it  is  impos- 
sible to  do  a  bloodless  operation  with  the  emasculator.  If  you  are 
expecting  a  bloodless  job  you  will  as  a  rule  be  disappointed  ex- 
cept in  extremely  enemic  colts.  If  you  are  afraid  of  hemorrhage, 
remember  that  the  only  method  of  operation  in  which  you  do  not 
get  more  or  less  blood  is  the  antiquated  ligature.  If  a  stallion 
bleeds  freely  after  castration  operation  the  best  way  to  proceed  is 
to  place  him  in  a  box  stall,  shut  the  door  and  go  with  the  owner  to 
dinner.  After  dinner  take  a  leisurely  smoke  with  the  owner — this 
usually  consumes  about  an  hour's  time— after  which  examine  the 
patient  and  you  will  find  that  nature  has  come  to  your  rescue  and 
hemorrhage  has  ceased. 

(b)  Secondary  Hemorrhage — This  form  of  hemorrhage  inva- 
riably ensues  from  the  spermatic  artery  and  contrary  to  primary 
hemorrhage  is  dangerous,  and  may  result  in  death  of  animal  un- 
less controlled.  It  usually  occurs  from  one  to  six  hours  after 
castration ;  however,  it  sometimes  occurs  several  days  after  oper- 
ation. Hemorrhage  of  this  character  is  usually  caused  by  dis- 
eased conditions  of  the  arteries  (Haemophilia),  increased  heart 
action,  sloughing  of  spermatic  cord,  etc.  The  blood  comes  in 
spurts  directly  from  the  artery  in  a  good  size  stream. 

Treatment — Nature  cannot  be  depended  upon  to  control  this 
class  of  hemorrhage.  Sometimes  it  is  possible  to  apply  haemo- 
static forceps  to  mouth  of  the  bleeding  vessel.  When  this  can- 
not be  done  with  the  animal  in  standing  posture  then  cast  and 
secure  the  patient  in  dorsal  position,  thoroughly  cleanse  the  parts 
with  antiseptic  solution  and  make  an  effort  to  ligate  the  artery. 
This  should  always  be  done  with  chromicized  catgut  (10  day). 
If  silk  or  any  other  form  of  unabsorbable  ligature  material  is  used 
a  scrotal  fistula  is  liable  to  result.  In  the  event  it  is  found  impos- 
sible to  locate  and  ligate  the  artery,  then  you  would  be  justified  in 
packing  the  canal  and  scrotum  with  sterile  gauze  and  suturing 
the  skin  incision.  Remove  the  packing  in  24  hours,  after  which 
irrigate  parts  once  daily  with  antiseptic  solution. 

Oedema  of  Sheath  and  Ventral  Surface  of  Abdomen — Oedema 
as  a  sequelae  of  castration  (See  Fig.  53)  is  a  condition  which  we 
may  reasonably  expect  in  the  great  majority  of  instances,  espe- 


80 


AxiMAL  Castration 


cially  may  we  expect  it  in  aged  stallions  and  those  which  are  kept 
stabled  and  not  allowed  the  requisite  amount  of  exercise.  Unless 
the  sheath  and  abdominal  swelling  is  associated  with  a  local  or 
systemic  sej^tic  infection  or  it  becomes  so  voluminous  as  to  cause 
interference  with  voiding  the  urine,  it  is  harmless  and  requires  no 
treatment  aside  from  free  scrotal  drainage  and  exercise.  The 
swelling  begins  to  appear  on  the  third  day  and  gradually  enlarges 
until  the  sixth  day,  after  which  it  begins  to  recede  rapidly  until 
the  eighth  or  ninth  day,  at  which  time  complete  recovery  has 
usually  taken  place. 

Treatment — When  treatment  is  required  the  first  thing  to  be 
done  is  to  wash  the  scrotal  and  inguinal  and  sheath  regions  with 
Lysol  or  Cresol  Compound,  U.  S.  P.,  in  the  strength  of  one 
tablespoonful  to  each  quart  of  water.    Cleanse  the  hands  in  like 


Fig.   53 — Oedema   of   Sheath    Fourth  Day  After  Castration. 


Animal  Castration 


81 


manner.  With  twitch  applied  and  held  by  an  assistant,  two 
fingers  are  introduced  into  the  scrotal  wound  by  forcing  the  lips 
of  the  incision  apart  sufficiently  to  afford  free  scrotal  and  inguinal 
canal  drainage,  after  which  irrigate  the  parts  with  antiseptic  so- 
lution. With  a  sharp-pointed  bistoury  the  point  of  sheath  (an- 
terior portion)  may  be  punctured  at  the  several  dependent  sites 
in  order  to  allow  the  accumulated  fluid  to  escape  by  oozing  out. 
In  scarifying  the  sheath  the  blade  of  the  knife  should  be  guarded 
with  the  thumb  in  such  a  way  as  to  prevent  too  deep  puncturing. 
Paraphimosis— J^rolsipse  of  the  penis  (See  Fig.  54)  may  re- 
sult from  extensive  inflammation  and  swelling  of  the  spermatic 


Fig.  54 — Paraphimosis  Eight  Days  After  Castration. 


cords  (funiculitis)  and  extensive  oedema  of  the  sheath.  Gen- 
erally the  penis  protrusion  is  merely  a  temporary  affair,  and  as 
soon  as  the  swelling  and  inflammation  of  the  spermatic  cords, 


82  Animal  Casteatiox 

sheath  and  scrotum  subsides  the  penis  assumes  its  normal  posi- 
tion in  the  sheath. 

Treatment — The  first  essential  is  to  support  the  pendulent  penis, 
as  its  great  weight  and  position  are  unfavorable  for  absorption 
of  the  fluid  and  reduction  of  the  swelling.  Bathe  the  swollen 
parts  with  plenty  of  warm  water  to  which  has  been  added  sugar 
of  lead  (plumbii  acetate)  in  the  strength  of  one  ounce  to  each 
gallon  of  water.  With  a  properly  constructed  suspensory  a  warm 
pack  saturated  with  the  above  solution  may  be  kept  applied  to 
the  parts, 

SchirroHs  Cord  or  Chronic  FuiiicnJitis  (Champig)io)i) — Is  an 
enlarging  and  hardening  of  the  stump  of  the  spermatic  cord.  It 
sometimes  reaches  enormous  proportions,  sufficiently  large  in 
some  instances  to  fill  and  distend  the  whole  inguinal  canal  and 
groin.  In  long  standing  chronic  cases  the  cord  is  surrounded 
by  dense  adhesions.  A  genuine  schirrous  cord  never  reduces  in 
size  spontaneously,  but  has  a  tendency  to  grow  larger  and  be- 
come harder. 

Cause — There  are  two  principle  reasons  for  this  sequelae  of 
castration : 

1.  Operator  leaving  stump  of  cord  sufficiently  long  to  be 
caught  between  lips  of  scrotal  incisions  during  the  healing  process. 
This,  of  course,  strangulates  the  cord  and  causes  it  to  enlarge 
and  harden. 

2.  Infection  either  actinomycotic,  streptococcic,  or  botryomy- 
cotic.  This  accounts  for  the  constant  pus  discharge  and  numerous 
abscesses  which  make  their  appearance  from  time  to  time.  Either 
ignorance  or  carelessness  on  the  part  of  operator  is  responsible 
for  this  unappreciated  condition.  By  removing  enough  cord  and 
practicing  cleanliness  at  the  outset  schirrous  cord  would  be  to  a 
large  degree  eliminated.  The  development  of  schirrous  cords  was 
largely  reduced  when  the  emasculator  superceded  the  old-style 
clamp  method  of  operating. 

Treatment — In  the  acute  stage  of  development — which  means 
two  to  six  weeks  after  castration — the  scrotal  region  should  be 
frequently  cleansed  by  washing.  The  scrotal  wound  itself  should 
be  painted  once  every  two  days  with  tincture  iodine.  During  this 
period  it  is  well  to  give  iodide  potash  in  I-drachm  doses  once  a  day. 


Animal  Castration 


83 


Fig.  55— A  Well  Developed   Schirrous   Cord. 

If  af  the  end  of  six  weeks  the  tumefaction  still  persists,  then 
the  radical  operation — which  consists  in  total  ablation — is  justi- 
fied and  in  fact  indicated. 

Restraint—^ame  as  for  ridgiing  castration,  see  page  54. 

Position — Dorsal. 

General  Anaesthesia  is  always  indicated  when  possible,  as  the 
operation  is  extremely  painful  and  usually  prolonged  for  a  con- 
siderable length  of  time  in  order  to  control  hemorrhage. 

Instruments,  etc. — 

1.  Ecraseur  (Figs.  5,  6,  7,  and  8). 

2.  Threaded  needles  for  ligating  blood  vessels,  suturing  skin 

incision  and  ligating  cord  if  for  any  reason  the  ecraseur 
fails  to  sever  it. 


84 


Animal  Castration 


3.  Sterile  gauze  in  liberal  aniuunt. 

4.  Haemostatic  forceps  (several  pairs). 

5.  Sharp  scalpel. 

6.  Yulselliuii  forceps  (Fig.  56.) 

7.  Thuiiil)  tissue  forceps. 


Fig.  56 — Vulsellum    Forceps   (8-inch). 


Fig. 


57— Schirrous  Cord,  Showing  Skin  Incision.    B,  Old  Cicatrix  with  Imprisoned  End  of 
Cord;   C,  Scrotum;   D,  Elliptical  Skin  Incisions  tor  Ablating  the  Growth. 


Animal  Castration 


85 


Sterilization  of  Instrumefits,  Cleansing  Operator's  Hands  and 
Field  of  Operation — Same  as  castration  of  the  stallion.  (See 
page  24.) 

Operative  Technique — With  field  of  operation,  operator's  hands, 
and  instruments  sterile  and  animal  in  dorsal  position,  proceed 
to  operate  as  follows:  With  scalpel  in  right  hand  make  two 
curved  elliptical  incisions  (D,  Fig.  57)  5  inches  long  with  the  orig- 
inal cicatrix  (scar)  B  as  the  center.  These  incisions  should  pen- 
etrate skin  and  subcutaneous  connective  tissue  only.  By  careful 
dissection  (both  sharp  and  blunt)  the  cord  is  gradually  loosened 
and  isolated  by  breaking  down  the  numerous  dense  adhesions 
surrounding  it.  The  elliptical  section  of  skin  which  is  removed 
on  end  of  cord  should  be  sufficiently  large  to  include  all  external 


Fig.   58 — Removing   Schirrous   Cord   with   Ecraseur.     E,   Schirrous  Cord  with  Ecraseur 
Chain  Around  It;  F,  Vulsellum  Forceps;  G,  Ecraseur;  H,  Right  Hand  of  Operator, 


86  Animal  Castration 

diseased  tissue,  such  as  sears,  grauulations,  etc.  The  tumor  is 
now  grasped  with  the  vulseUum  forceps  (Fig.  58.)  These  are 
held  by  an  assistant  in  such  maimer  as  to  afford  considerable 
direct  upward  traction.  With  the  cord  tense  from  traction  the 
careful  dissection  is  continued  up  the  inguinal  canal  until  a  point 
is  reached  well  above  the  diseased  or  indurated  portion  of  the 
cord.  If  the  entire  cord  is  diseased,  then  we  should  proceed  up 
the  canal  to  a  point  in  close  proximity  to  the  internal  abdominal 
ring.  Usually  after  the  cord  is  released  from  its  scrotal  adhe- 
sions the  remainder  of  the  dissection  process  can  be  completed  by 
tearing  with  the  fingers.  All  freely  bleeding  blood  vessels — except 
those  in  cord  itself — should  be  ligated  as  you  proceed.  When 
the  growth  is  freed  from  all  surrounding  attachments  the  ecraseur 
chain  should  be  placed  around  it  as  high  up  as  necessary  and 
with  continued  traction  from  vulsellum  forceps  the  cord  is  quickly 
severed. 

If  cord  is  too  large  to  be  severed  by  the  ecraseur,  then  the 
ligature  must  be  resorted  to.  In  such  event  the  cord  should  be 
transfixed  and  ligated  in  several  sections.  The  scrotal  wound 
should  now  be  irrigated  thoroughly  with  bichloride  mercury  solu- 
tion in  the  strength  of  1-1000,  after  which  pack  tightly  with  for- 
malized gauze  and  suture  up  securely. 

After  Treatment — If  upon  completion  of  the  operation  decided 
shock  is  imminent  the  animal  should  have  strychnine  %  grain, 
nitiTj-glycerine  i/i  gi'ain,  hypodermically.  If  a  large  amount  of 
blood  has  been  lost  normal  saline  solution  injected  intravenously 
is  indicated.  Remove  packing  in  36  hours  and  irrigate  the  wound 
daily  with  Lysol  or  Cresol  Compound,  U.  S.  P.,  in  the  strength  of 
a  tablespoonf ul  to  each  quart  of  water. 

Exuberant  Granulations — On  account  of  some  mishap  in  oper- 
ative technique  or  some  character  of  infection,  exuberant  granula- 
tions sometimes  appear  as  a  sequelae  of  castration.  They  are,  of 
course,  first  acute  and  in  most  instances  disappear  without  treat- 
ment. However,  if  a  cure  is  not  effected  in  the  acute  stage,  then 
they  assume  a  chronic  form  and  may  reach  enormous  proportions 
in  size.    (See  Fig.  59.)    They  are  usually  extra-scrotal. 


Animal  Castration 


87 


M^ 


Fig.  59 — Exuberant  Granulations  Which  Have  Assumed  the  Chronic  Form  and 
Reached  Enormous  Size. 

If  not  attached  to  cord  their  removal  and  after  treatment  is  a 
simple  matter,  consisting  in  removing  the  skin  by  dissection  well 
around  their  base,  controlling  cutaneous  hemorrhage  and  daily 
washing  the  wound  wdth  antiseptic  solution. 

Hydrocele  {''Water  Bag") — Is  simply  an  accumulation  of  se- 
rous fluid  in  the  testicular  sac  (tunica  vaginalis),  from  which  the 
testicle  itself  has  been  removed. 

Cause — There  is  only  one  cause  for  this  condition.  It  may  be 
directly  attributed  to  either  the  operator's  carelessness  or  igno- 
rance. The  only  reason  for  the  development  of  hydrocele  as  a 
sequelae  of  castration  is  leaving  too  much  of  the  tunica  vaginalis 


88 


AxiMAL  Castration 


in  the  scrotum  at  time  of  severing  the  spermatic  cord.  If  at  least 
one  inch  of  the  tunica  be  removed  then  there  is  no  occasion,  in 
fact,  no  possibility  of  a  hydrocele  developing. 

Frequency — It  is  rare  to  see  hydrocele  in  the  stallion  and  colt, 
however,  the  reverse  is  true  as  regards  the  mule.  Hydrocele  is 
decided!}^  the  most  frequent  sequelae  of  mule  castration,  and  noth- 
ing reflects  quite  so  much — in  mule  raising  centers — upon  a  man 's 
ability  and  qualification  as  having  numerous  mules  which  he  cas- 


Fig.  60 — Well  Developed  Hydrocele  ("Water   Bag")    in   a   Three-Year-Old    Mule. 
A,  Hydrocele. 


trates  turn  up  later  with  "water  bags."  While  they  do  not  inter- 
fere in  the  least  with  the  general  health  and  usefulness  of  the 
animal  they  are  nevertheless  great  "eye  sores,"  and  depreciate 
the  animal's  marketable  value,  hence  should  in  every  instance  be 


Animal  Casteation 


89 


removed  by  surgical  interference.  They  may  be  unilateral  or 
bilateral. 

Preparation — Same  as  for  castration  of  the  stallion.  (See  page 
14.) 

Sterilization  of  Instruments  and  Operator's  Hands — Same  as 
for  castrating  the  stallion.    (See  page  24.) 

Restraint — For  small  mules,  same  as  for  castration  of  the  colt. 
(See  page  36.)  For  large  mules,  same  as  for  castration  of  the 
' ' ridgiing. "     (See  pages  54-56.) 

Position — Dorsal. 

Instruments — 

1.  Miles'  hook  castrating  knife.     (See  Fig.  25.) 

2.  Vulsellum  forceps.     (See  Fig.  56.) 

3.  Ecraseur.    (See  Fig.  41.) 

4.  Haemostatic  forceps. 


Fig.    61— Hydrocele    Showing    Skin    Incisions.      B,    Hydrocele;    C,    Incisions; 
E,  Right  Hand  of  Operator. 


90 


Axi:\iAL  Casteation 


SteriUzation  of  Field  of  Opcrafion — Same  as  castration  of  the 
stallion.     (See  page  24.) 

Technique  of  Operation — With  Miles'  hook  castrating  knife  in 
right  hand  (E)  two  curved  or  elliptical  incisions  are  made  (C, 
Fig.  61)  to  the  right  and  left  of  the  most  prominent  part  of  the 
hydrocele  (B).  This  means  that  the  old  cicatrix  (scar)  is  in  cen- 
ter of  section  of  skin  removed.  These  incisions  should  be  made 
from  4  to  5  inches  long — depending  upon  size  of  the  hydrocele. 
They  should  extend  through  skin  and  subcutaneous  connective  tis- 
sue only.     With  the  vulsolhun  forceps  grasp  elliptical  section  of 


Fig.    62 — Hydrocele    Showing   Method    of    Removal   by   the   Ecrascur.      F,   Lett    Hai 
Operator;  G,  Vulsellum  Forceps;  H,  Hydrocele;   I,  Ecraseur;  J,  Right  Hand 
of  Operator. 

skin  which  is  to  l)c  removed  with  the  hydrocele.  Have  assistant 
make  upward  traction  while  the  superficial  subcutaneous  adhesions 
are  being  carefully  broken  down  by  sharj)  dissection.  These  ad- 
hesions never  extend  deep  and  are  readily  broken  down.  If  neces- 
sary ligate  spurting  blood  vessels  as  you  proceed.  As  soon  as  the 
scrotal  adhesions  are  removed  from  around  tunica  vaginalis  the 


Animal  Castration  91 

operator  takes  charge  of  the  Yulselhim  forceps  with  his  left  hand 
and  with  fingers  of  the  right  tears  the  tunica  vaginalis  loose  from 
its  delicate  fascia  attachments  until  a  point  is  reached  on  the 
spermatic  cord  well  aboA^e  where  it  was  formerly  severed.  The 
chain  of  the  ecraseur  is  now  applied  to  tunica  ("sac")  and  the 
same,  including  the  stump  of  spermatic  cord,  is  severed.  It  is 
rarely  ever  necessary  to  pack  the  scrotum  in  order  to  control  hem- 
orrhage. 


Fig.  63 — Hydrocele  After  Removal. 


After  Care  and  Treatment — About  all  this  is  necessary  is  daily 
observation  in  order  to  see  that  everything  proceeds  well.  If 
sequelae  arise  they  must  be  treated  as  outlined  under  their  re- 
spective headings. 


92  Animal  Castration 

CHAPTER  VII. 

CASTRATIOX  OF  THE  BULL. 

Objects  and  Iiidicatioiis — The  operation  is  usually  performed 
for  purely  economic  purposes.  However,  in  some  instances,  on 
account  of  diseased  conditions  of  the  scrotum,  testicle  and  sper- 
matic cord,  it  becomes  necessary  to  castrate.  On  the  other  hand 
some  bulls  become  vicious  to  the  extent  of  being  a  source  of 
danger  and  annoyance  to  their  owners  and  attendants,  in  which 
event  castration  must  be  resorted  to.  As  an  economic  operation 
— especial^  in  young  animals — its  value  is  beyond  estimate.  Cas- 
tration increases  physical  development  and  hastens  early  growth 
as  well  as  improving  the  texture,  odor,  wholesomeness  and  nutri- 
tive properties  of  the  beef.  Bulls  are  also  castrated  for  the  j)ur- 
pose  of  making  work  oxen. 

Castrated  bulls  are  known  as  "steers." 

Age — From  several  days  to  several  years.  The  younger  the 
better.  Most  calves  are  submitted  to  the  operation  at  about  two 
to  three  months  old. 

Season — Early  spring,  late  fall  and  winter.  The  bull  or  calf 
should  never  be  submitted  to  castration  operation  during  "fly 
time."  Bovine  animals  do  not  possess  the  same  instinct  In  pro- 
tecting themselves  from  flies — by  warding  them  off  with  tail — 
as  does  the  equine  species.  On  this  account  late  spring,  early  fall 
and  summer  are  unfavorable  seasons  for  castrating  this  class  of 
animals.  Bulls  are  castrated  in  both  the  standing  and  recumbent 
posture. 

Preparation — No  special  preparation  is  necessary  unless  the  ani- 
mal is  to  be  cast  and  tied,  in  which  event  have  the  alimentary 
tract  empty  by  withholding  feed  for  24  hours  before  operating. 

CASTRATION  OF  THE  BULL  IN  THE  RECUMBENT  POSTURE. 

Restraint — When  it  becomes  necessary  to  cast  and  tie  the  ani- 
mal for  this  operation  an  excellent  method  of  doing  so  is  with 
the  Conkey  self -lock  buckle  hobbles.    (Fig.  64.) 


Animal  Castration 


93 


Fig.  64— Conkey's  Self  Lock  Buckle  Hobbles  Applied. 


These  hobbles  have  the  advantage  of  being  strong,  safe,  quick 
to  apply  and  easy  to  remove.  The  degree  of  restraint  afforded  by 
them  is  ample,  especially  when  used  in  conjunction  with  a  15-foot 
rope.  In  applying  hobble  straps  to  cattle  always  buckle  or  loop 
them  above  the  ankles,  otherwise  there  is  a  tendenc}^  for  them 
to  slip  over  the  foot  and  off.  The  hobbles  are  applied  as  follows 
(Fig.  64):  With  an  assistant  (C)  at  the  head,  a  "holder"  in 
the  nose  (A)  and  rope  around  horns  (B)  buckle  a  hobble  strap 
above  ankles  of  both  hind  (G,  H)  and  the  right  fore  (E). 
Buckle  master  hobble  strap  above  left  fore  ankle  (D).  Pass  the 
end  of  rope  through  hobble  strap  (G)  then  through  (H),  then 
through  (E),  and  lastly  across  through  self -lock  buckle  (F). 
By  making  tension  on  rope  (I)  from  (J) — at  direct  right  angles 
to  the  animal — he  is  cast  on  the  right  side.  After  the  animal  is 
cast  (See  Fig.  65)  the  uppermost  hind  ankle  (N)  is  released 
from  its  hobble  strap  and  the  end  of  a  15-foot  rope  looped  on 
instead  of  the  hobble  strap.  This  rope  (P)  is  passed  over  withers 
(O)  under  neck  (Q)  and  above  hock  (R)  in  such  manner  as  to 
draw  the  foot  against  the  abdomen  and  flex  the  hock  to  a  certain 
degree.  In  this  position  of  the  animal  the  operation  can  be  pro- 
ceeded with  without  danger  to  either  the  operator  or  patient. 
Calves  may  be  held  without  tieing  by  one  or  more  assistants. 


94 


AxiMAF.  Castration 


Sv 

^ 

^ 

1 

^ 

1 

r^  . 

_  -,^^a|^^^^ 

w^\ 

P 

1^/  ■  ^ 

^^^X 

y^ 

kf 

^^^^^^^^^I^^^^^^H 

Fig.  65 — Bull  Cast  and  Tied  for  Castration  Operation. 

Iiistriuncufs — The  emasculator  (Figs.  5,  6,  7,  and  8)  and  cas- 
trating knife  are  the  only  instruments  needed.  The  Miles  hook 
castrating  knife  (Fig.  25)  and  the  AVilliams  castrating  knife  (Fig. 
2)  are  equally  satisfactory  for  this  operation. 


ANATOMY. 

In  order  to  operate  intelligently  some  knowledge  of  the  anatomy 
of  the  scrotum,  testicle  and  inguinal  canal  is  necessary.  However, 
lack  of  space  prevents  going  into  details  here.  By  reference  to 
Fig.  66  a  general  idea  of  the  relation  and  position  of  the  generative 
or  reproductive  organs  of  the  bull  may  be  had. 

Testicle — The  testicle  is  a  compound  tubular  gland  ovoid  in 
shape  and  well  developed  with  its  long  axis  vertical.  On  the 
epididymus  is  a  well  developed  globus  major. 

Penis — The  penis  is  round  in  shape  and  long  in  length.  It  pro- 
jects far  under  the  abdomen  and  possesses  the  well  recognized  S- 
shape  curve.    Its  gland  is  small  and  pointed. 

Prejnice — The  prepuce  is  located  well  under  the  abdomen.  It 
is  simply  an  elastic  sheath,  surrounded  at  its  external  opening  by 
long  stiff  hairs.    Its  cavity  is  from  10  to  15  inches  long. 

Scrotum — The  scrotum  is  long  and  loendulous,  and  has  a  well 
marked  neck.  It  is  suspended  between  the  thighs  somewhat  fur- 
ther forward  than  in  the  stallion. 


Animal  Castration 


95 


Fig.  66 — Generative  or  Reproductive  Organs  of  the  Bull.  A,  Ejaculator  Seminis; 
D,  Intrapelvic  Portion  of  Urethra;  C,  Urinary  Bladder;  D,  D,  Ureters;  E,  E,  Intra- 
Abdominal  Portion  of  Spermatic  Cords;  F,  S-Shape  Curve  in  Penis;  G,  Retractor  Muscles 
of  Sheath;  H,  H,  Tunica  Vaginalis;  I,  Penis;  J,  Prepuce;  K,  Scrotum;  L,  L,  Testicles; 
M,  M,  Internal  Abdominal  Rings. 

Spermatic  Cord — The  spermatic  cord  and  its  covering — tnnica 
vaginalis — is  much  longer  than  in  the  stallion. 

Inguinal  Canal — This  canal  is  long  and  narrow,  and  directed 
almost  perpendicular  to  the  scrotum. 


96 


Animal  Castration 


Fig.  67— Testicle  of  Bull. 


A,  Siieimuiic  Cuid;    B,  Testes;   C,  Globus  Major  of  Epididy- 
mus;  D,  Epididymus. 


Sterilisation  of  Instruments  and  Cleansing  Operator's  Hands — 
Same  as  castration  of  the  stallion.    (See  page  24.) 

Disinfection  of  the  Operative  Field — While  this  step  in  the  op- 
erative procedure  is  usually  ignored  entirely  or  if  done  at  all  it 
is  usually  done  in  a  perfunctory  manner,  nevertheless  such  neg- 
lect is  inexcusable.  On  account  of  the  danger  of  sepsis  and  other 
sequelae  known  to  follow  bull  castration,  the  operator  should  take 
the  time  and  precaution  necessary  to  disinfect  the  field  of  opera- 
tion.   This  may  be  quickly  done  as  follows : 

(a)  Scrub  scrotum  and  inside  of  thighs  with  soap  and  warm 
water  until  all  visible  dirt  is  removed. 

(b)  Wash  parts  with  Lysol  or  Cresol  Compound,  U.  S.  P.,  in 
the  strength  of  one  tablespoonful  to  each  quart  of  water. 

Operative  Technique — There  are  two  methods  of  making  the 


Animal  Castration 


97 


scrotal  incision,  (a)  lateral  or  side  incisions  (see  Fig.  68)  ;  (b) 
end  incision  (see  Fig.  69). 

Lateral  or  Side  Incision — This  method  is  the  most  popular  one, 
as  after  recovery  there  is  less  mntilation  of  the  scrotum. 


Fig.   68 — Method   of  Making   Lateral   or   Side   Scrotal    Incisions.     A,    Right   Testicle   in 
Scrotum;    B,  Scrotum;    C,  Knife;    D,  Right  Hand;    B,   Left  Hand;    F,  Incision. 

Grasp  left  side  of  scrotum  in  left  hand  and  by  compressing  it 
force  right  testicle  to  the  right  until  the  skin  of  scrotum  is 
stretched  tight.  With  sterilized  knife  in  right  hand  begin  in- 
cision 4  inches  above  apex  of  scrotum  and  bring  it  down  to  near 
the  apex.  The  incision  should  be  made  through  the  skin,  subcuta- 
neous connective  tissue  dartos  and  tunica  vaginalis.  This  exposes 
the  testicle.  Grasp  the  testicle  with  the  right  hand  and  with  the 
left  strip  the  attached  scrotal  tissue  from  the  cord  until  the  cord 
itself  is  isolated  well  up  to  summit  (top)  of  scrotum.    The  final 


98 


Axi^rAL  Castratiox 


step  of  the  ()i)erati(Hi  consists  in  graspint;-  testicle  with  k't't  hand 
and  malving  two  pounds  tension  on  its  eord.  With  right  hand 
apply  eniaseulator  to  the  spermatic  cord  and  force  it  (eniasculator) 
well  to  the  summit  (top)  of  scrotum.  By  bringing  handles  to- 
gether the  cord  and  its  coverings  ai'e  severed.  The  op])osite  testi- 
cle is  likewise  removed. 


Fig.  69 — Method  of  Operating  in  Which  Apex  (Bottom)  of  Scrotum  Is  Removed.     G,  H, 
Testicles  in  Scrotum;   I,  Knife;   J,  Right  Hand;   K,  Left  Hand;   L,  Incision. 

(b)  The  other  method  of  scrotal  incisions  (Fig.  69)  consists  in 
grasi)ing  apex  (bottom)  of  scrotum  with  left  hand  and  by  com- 
pressing it  force  the  testicles  uijward  until  the  lower  one-third  of 
the  scrotum  may  be  severed  without  injuring  them.  With  knife  in 
right  hand  it  is  an  easy  affair  to  remove  the  lower  one-third  of 
the  scrotal  sac. 

The  tunica  vaginalis  containing  the  testicles  drops  outside  the 


Ani^ial  Castration 


99 


remaining  portion  of  scrotnm.  By  knieking  the  tunic  the  testi- 
cles themselves  are  exposed.  With  right  hand  grasp  one  of  them 
and  make  two  pounds  traction  on  the  cord,  with  left  hand  strip 
the  scrotal  tissue  from  the  cord  until  it  is  isolated  well  up  to 
summit  (top)  of  scrotum.  Next  grasp  testicle  with  left  hand 
and  make  two  pounds  traction  on  cord.  With  right  hand  apply 
the  emasculator  and  force  it  upward  to  summit  (top)  of  scrotum 
in  order  that  a  sufficient  amount  of  spermatic  cord  will  be  re- 
moved. By  bringing  handles  of  emasculator  together  the  cord 
and  all  its  coverings  are  severed.  This  method  has  the  advantage 
of  affording  ideal  scrotal  drainage. 


Fig.   70 — Severing   Spermatic   Cord   with  Emasculator    (Recumbent  Posture).     T,  Right 

Hand;   U,  Testicle;  V,  Spermatic  Cord    and  Its  Coverings;    W,  Emasculator 

X,  Left  Hand;  Y,  Opposite  Testicle. 


After  Care  and  Treat  me  )it — Turn  to  pasture  and  make  daily 
observation  to  see  that  all  is  going  well.  If  the  scrotal  wound 
closes  in  such  manner  as  to  interfere  with  drainage  and  cause 
extensive  swelling,  then  it  should  be  opened  and  the  scrotum  irri- 
gated with  antiseptic  solution. 


100 


Axi:mal  Castratiox 


CASTRATION  OF  THE  BULL  IX  STAXDIXG  POSTURE. 

Restraiiif—lf  the  animal  possesses  horns  a  strong  rope  may  be 
looped  around  them  and  his  head  drawn  close  up  to  a  post.  Tn 
most  instances  this  is  all  the  restraint  employed.  Contrary  to 
the  prevalent  popular  opinion  the  bull  can  actually  kick  backwards 
about  as  hard  as  he  can  sidewise.  In  castrating  most  bulls  in  the 
standing  posture  the  oi)erator  must  either  stand  out  of  range  of 
the  hind  feet,  contine  them  by  means  of  roi)es,  or  take  his  chances 
on  the  kicking  proposition.     In  castrating  young  bulls  (3  to  6 


Fig.  71— Castration  of  tlie  Bull  in  Standing  Posture.     E,  Post;   F,  Rope;   G,  Left  Hand; 
H,  Scrotum;  I,  Incision;  J,  Right  Hand;  K,  Knife. 


Animal  Castration  101 

months  of  age)  the  standing  posture  is  ideal  and  injury  to  the 
operator  by  kicks  is  extremely  rare. 

The  same  instruments,  preparation,  disinfection  of  site  of 
operation,  sterilization  of  instruments,  scrotal  incisions,  etc.,  are 
employed  here  as  castrating  bulls  in  the  recumbent  posture.  The 
operator  should — while  making  scrotal  incision — have  his  knife 
under  thorough  control  as  at  this  time  there  is  almost  invariably  an 
alu'upt  movement  on  part  of  the  animal  which  might  result  in  the 
knife  coming  in  contact  with  the  tendo-achillis  ("hamstring")  and 
doing  irreparable  damage.  Calves  are  castrated  in  the  same  man- 
ner as  bulls. 

castration  of  the  crittorchid  and  monorchid 
("ridgling")  bull. 

Compared  with  the  horse  and  hog,  ciyptorchidism  in  cattle 
is  extreme^  rare.  However,  such  a  complication  does  actually 
exist,  and  it  behooves  those  who  are  expected  to  perform  such 
classes  of  operations  to  qualify  themselves  for  this  one. 

Objects  and  Indicafions — Same  as  castration  of  the  bull.  See 
page  92. 

Age — Six  to  twelve  months. 

Preparcdion — Withhold  all  food  for  twenty-four  hours  previous 
to  operating. 

Position — Standing. 

Restraint — A  simple,  quick  and  efficient  method  of  handling  a 
bull  for  this  operation  is  illustrated  in  Fig.  72.  With  a  iT)pe  around 
horns  (B),  if  "polled"  use  halter,  and  holder  in  nose  (A),  the 
head  is  made  fast  to  gate  post  (C).  While  assistant  continues  to 
hold  rope  attached  to  nose  the  second  assistant  grasps  tail  (D) 
and  draws  it  between  slats  of  gate  or  fence  (E).  With  animal  in 
this  position  and  thus  secured  he  can  be  castrated  with  little  annoy- 
ance in  so  far  as  body  movement  is  concerned.  If  stocks  are  avail- 
able of  course  they  should  be  used  in  preference  to  this  method. 

Instruments— 

1.  Miles' hook  castrating  knife.    (Fig.  25.) 

2.  Emasculator.     (Figs.  5,  6,  7  and  8.) 

3.  Hair  clippers.     (Fig.  145.) 

4.  Spraying  needle.     (Fig.  152.) 

5.  Strong  flax  or  braided  silk  for  flank  sutures. 


102 


AxiMAL  Castration 


Fig.    rJ.  -Rid.^liiig   Bull  ronlined  lor  llciblraliou. 

Sterilization  of  Iiistninicnts  aitd  Cicausiiuj  Ilaiuts  of  Operator — 
The  instrunients  should  be  lH)iled  for  15  to  20  minutes.  Operator's 
hands  should  ])e  thoroughly  washed  with  soap  and  warm  water, 
using  scrub  brush,  after  which  wash  in  Lysol  or  Cresol  Compound. 
U.  S.  P.,  in  the  strength  of  one  tablespoonful  to  each  quart  of 
water. 

Preparation  of  Operatire  Field — With  clippers  the  hair  in  flank 
region  should  be  removed,  after  which  thoroughly  wash  parts  with 
soap  and  warm  water,  using  scrub  brush,  then  with  Lysol  or  Cresol 
Comioound,  U.  S.  P.,  in  the  strength  of  one  tablespoonful  to  each 
quart  of  water.  As  a  further  precaution  against  septic  infection 
the  skin  should  be  painted  with  tincture  iodine. 

Operatire  TeeJniique — The  most  poi)ular  and  satisfactory 
method  of  operating  is  flank  laparotomy,  which  is  as  ftdlows: 
With  Miles'  hook  castrating  knife  make  flank  incision  in  the  same 
manner  and  the  same  size  as  for  heifer  spaying.  All  the  details 
of  this  incision  are  well  illustrated  and  described  under  head  of 
heifer  spaying,  and  the  reader  is  strongly  advised  to  refer  to  this 
reference  before  reading  further  in  regard  to  the  technique  of  the 
operation. 


Animal  Castration 


103 


'A 


Fig.  73— Removing   Testicle  of  "Ridgling"  Bull  with  Emasculator.     G,  Flank  Incision; 
H,  Emasculator;   I,  Testicle;   J,  Hand. 


Fig.  74— Flank  Incision  Closed  by  Three  Inteirupted  Sutures.     K,  Sutures. 


lOtt  Axi:^iAL  Castkatiox 

The  flank  incision  itself  is  by  far  the  most  important  step  of  the 
operation,  and  remember  that  there  is  only  one  x)roper  way  to 
make  it.    Learn  how  it  should  be  made  and  make  it  that  way. 

If  we  are  invading  the  left  flank  the  operator's  left  hand  should 
be  forced  through  the  abdominal  incision  and  a  careful  search 
made — toward  the  pelvic  region — for  either  the  testicle  or  sper- 
matic cord.  One  or  both  of  them  will  soon  be  encountered.  Bring 
the  testicle  outside  the  abdominal  cavity  if  the  cord  is  sufficiently 
long  to  permit  it.  Then  sever  cord  with  emasculator  and  drop 
stump  of  cord  back  into  the  abdominal  cavity.  If  the  cord  is  not 
long  enough  to  permit  testicle  being  brought  out  of  abdomen,  then 
the  emasculator  or  ecraseur  may  be  passed  through  the  incision 
and  cord  severed  inside. 

The  wound  is  now  sponged  ofl  with  antiseptic  solution  and 
closed  by  three  interrupted  sutures. 

After  Care  and  Treatment — Limited  diet  for  five  days.  Re- 
moval of  sutures  at  expiration  of  eight  days.  If  stitch  abscess 
forms  the  suture  mav  be  removed  at  an  earlier  date. 


Animal  Castration  105 

CHAPTER  VIII. 

CASTRATION  OF  THE  BOAR. 

Objects  and  Lidicatiois — Pigs  are  castrated  in  order  to  facili- 
tate their  growth  and  fattening.  Aside  from  tlie  above  the  opera- 
tion has  a  tendency  to  improve  their  behavior  when  associated  with 
other  hogs,  especially  sows.  Older  hogs  (boars)  are  often  castrated 
when  having  reached  the  limit  of  usefulness  as  breeding  animals, 
it  is  decided  to  prepare  them  for  market.  Even  when  castrated, 
boars  never  make  choice  meat.  However,  the}^  take  on  flesh  (fat- 
ten) very  readily  and  their  characteristic  odor  disappears  to  a  de- 
cided degree.  Castrated  boars  are  known  as  "stags."  Castrated 
pigs  are  referred  to  as  "barrows"  and  it  is  a  well-recognized  fact 
that  "barrows"  command  a  higher  market  price  than  do  boars. 

Castration  is  an  operation  which  is  universally  practiced  wher- 
ever swine  are  raised. 

Age — Pigs  are  best  castrated  either  tw^o  weeks  before  or  two 
weeks  after  weaning.  If  the  operation  is  performed  at  or  near 
weaning  time  it  has  a  tendency  to  retard  their  growth  and  de- 
velopment. If  allowed  to  run  too  long  they  become  "boarish" 
besides  the  operation  is  more  painful  than  it  would  have  been 
if  they  had  been  operated  on  younger. 

Season — Hogs  should  not  be  castrated  during  the  summer 
months  while  flies  are  prevalent.  Best  to  operate  during  late 
fall,  winter  and  early  spring. 

Preparation — No  special  preparation  is  necessary  unless  it  be 
to  have  the  animals  empty,  which  would  lessen  the  danger  of 
injury  from  handling. 

Restraint — In  castrating  large  boars  it  is  necessary  to  take  ad- 
vantage of  the  animal  to  a  very  decided  degree.  This  is  essential, 
first,  on  account  of  the  great  strength  of  the  animal  compared 
to  its  size,  and,  second,  on  account  of  there  being  no  favorable 
part  or  appendage  of  the  hog  by  which  a  firm  hand  hold  can  be 
taken.     Satisfactorv  restraint  mav  be  had  by  several  different 


106 


AXIMAL  CaSTEATIOX 


Fig.  75 — Restraint  for  Castration. 


Fig.  76— Restraint  of  Large  Boar  for  Castration. 


Animal  Castration 


107 


methods.  Fig.  75  illustrates  casting  and  tying  the  animal  l^y  bring- 
ing three  feet  together. 

To  thus  secure  a  large  hog.  requires  considerable  time  and 
much  effort  besides  the  services  of  several  assistants.  A  favorite 
method  of  the  author  for  handling  large  boars  for  this  operation 
is  graphically  illustrated  in  Fig.  76. 

It  consists  in  placing  the  loop  of  a  half  or  three-quarter  inch 
rope  over  the  neck  and  behind  one  shoulder,  after  which  throw 
the  rope  over  beam  above  and  allow  the  assistant  to  draw  the  fore- 
feet of  the  hog  off  the  floor  by  tension  on  the  rope.  This  renders 
the  animal  absolutely  helpless.  By  such  a  method  the  operator 
with  one  assistant  can  handle  the  largest  size  hog. 

Another  quick  method  of  restraint  for  o]3eration  of  this  char- 
acter is  illustrated  in  Fig.  77. 


Fig.  77 — Restraint  for  Castration. 

This  consists  in  placing  a  rail  or  bar  over  the  neck  of  the  hog 
where  it  is  held  by  weight  of  an  assistant. 

Figs,  78  and  79  illustrate  two  methods  of  holding  pigs  and 
small  shoats  for  operation. 

Instruments — 

1.  Williams'  castrating  knife.     (Fig.  2.) 

2.  Emasculator.     (Fig.  80.)     This  is  an  instrument  specially 


108 


Animal  Castration 


Fig.  78 — Holding  Pij;  lor  CasLration. 


Fig.  79 — Holding  Pig  tor  (Jastration. 


constructed  for  castrating  swine  and  sheep,  and  is  about  one-half 
the  size  of  the  one  used  in  castrating  stallions  and  colts  and  about 
twice  the  size  of  the  canine  and  feline  instrument. 

Aiiatouiij — The  scrotum  consists  of  two  pouches  formed  by  skin 
sul)cutaneous  connective  tissue,  etc.  These  pouches  are  divided 
by  a  j'a])lie  or  "median  line"  and  fit  np  close  to  the  perineal  re- 
gion. These  pouches  each  contain  a  testicle  (Fig.  81)  which  is 
decidedly  shorter  and  more  rounded  than  the  testicle  of  many  of 
the  other  domestic  animals.    Their  long  axis  is  vertical. 

disinfection  of  Operative  Field — Same  as  for  castration  of 
the  bull.    (See  page  96.) 

Operative  Teelniirjiie — With  sterile  instruments,  clean  hands, 


Animal  Castration 


109 


Fig.  8U — Swine  and  Slieep  Emasculator. 

and  the  animal  proper!}^  secured  this  operation  is  simple  and  an 
extremely  easy  one  to  perform.  The  scrotum  is  firmly  grasped 
with  the  left  Land  and  two  bold  incisions  made.     (H,  I,  Fig.  82.) 

Sterilkation  of  Instriuneuts  and  Cleansing  Hands  of  Operator 
—  Same  as  for  castration  of  the  bull.    (See  page  96.) 

These  incisions  should  begin  well  forward  on  the  scrotum  and 
extend  sufficiently  far  backward  to  allow  the  testicle  to  be  re- 
m.oved  from  (he  scrotum  without  effort.  The  larger  the  incision 
the  better.  These  incisions  should  be  parallel  to  each  other  and 
to  tlie   "median  line."     They  should  be  from  one-half  to  one 


Fie.  81— Testicle  of  Boar.     O,  Testes;   P,  R,  Epididymus;   S,  T,  Spermatic  Cord. 


110 


Animal  Casteatiox 


Fig..  S2 — J,  Hand;    H,   I,  Incisions  in  Scrotum. 


incli,  depeiidiiig  on  the  size  of  the  hog,  to  each  side  of  the  "niediaii 
line."  If  for  any  reason  the  first  incision  was  not  sufficiently 
deep  to  |)enetrate  the  tunica  vaginalis  (sac  covering  testicle)  and 
completely  releasing  the  testicle  from  scrotum,  then  with  another 
stroke  of  the  knife  this  tunic  is  incised,  which  allows  the  testicle 
to  escape  from  the  scrotum.  The  testicle  is  now  grasped  with 
the  left  hand,  by  which  it  is  advisable  to  apply  about  one  to 
two  pounds  traction  on  the  cord,  after  which  apply  the  emas- 
culator  (M)  to  cord  and  its  coverings  (L)  as  close  to  the  skin 
or  scrotal  incision  as  possible,  being  careful  that  the  instrument 
is  at  direct  right  angles  to  the  cord,  after  which  the  cord  is  severed 
by  bringing  the  handles  of  the  instrument  together.  (See  Fig.  83.) 
The  opposite  testicle  is  now  removed  in  like  manner. 

After  Care  (Did  Trcatinoit — Inmiediately  after  castration  it  is 
well  to  turn  animals  to  pasture — i)referably  where  there  is  run- 
ning water.  In  any  event  get  them  away  from  the  barn  and  barn- 
yard and  do  not  allow  them  access  to  stagnant  and  filthy  "wallow 
holes."    Recovery  is  usually  prompt  and  the  mortality  is  small. 

Sequelae— ^e\)tu-i\(']\n-d  (blood  poison),  peritonitis,  schirrous 
cord,  tetanus  (lock  jaw),  hemorrhage. 


Animal  Castration 


111 


'  i 

i 

r 

f 

j 

^ 

jjg^ 

^«Mli 

f^r 

HH 

' 

N 

M 

Fig.   83 — Severing   Spermatic   Cord   and   Its   Covering    witli    Emasculator.      K,   Testicle; 
L,  Spermatic  Cord  and  Its  Covering;  M,  Emasculator;  N,  Opposite  Testicle. 


castration  of  the  cryptorchid  and  monorchid 
("ridgling")  boar. 

Objects  and  Indications— AW  "ridgiing"  boars  and  pigs 
should  be  castrated.  The  principal  reasons  for  so  doing  are  out- 
lined under  proper  heading  in  describing  castration  of  the  boar. 
(Page  105.)  Furthermore,  oj^eration  is  strongly  advised  since 
the  modus  operandi  itself  is  eas}^  and  comparatively  simple  and 
attended  with  so  little  danger  if  proper  procedure  is  adhered  to. 

Age — At  about  25  to  35  pounds  weight. 

Preparation — The  pig  must  be  empty.  This  is  done  by  with- 
holding all  food  for  twenty-four  hours  previous  to  operating. 
A  plentiful  amount  of  water  may  be  allowed. 

Warning — The  pig  should  be  free  from  constitutional  diseases 
and  in  good  physical  condition.  Before  operating,  see  that  the 
testicle  is  not  located  in  the  inguinal  canal.     This  precaution  is 


112  Animal  Castratiox 

essential  on  account  of  the  fact  that  if  the  testicle  is  in  the  canal 
it  cannot  be  withdrawn  through  the  alxloniinal  incision. 

Bestvaiut — Since  the  operation  consists  in  median  line  laparot- 
omy the  animal  should  be  suspended  from  the  ground  to  a  post 
or  beam  above  until  the  site  of  incision  is  al)out  o])posite  the 
operator's  breast. 

Instnuuoifs — 

1.  Miles'  hook  castrating  knife.     (Fig.  25.) 

2.  Emasculator.     (Fig.  80.) 

3.  Hagerdorn  needle  (Fig.  84)  carrying  20  inches  of  braided 
silk  No.  12  for  abdominal  sutures. 

4.  Richter's  needle  holder  (Fig.  34). 

5.  Curved  scissors  (6-inch)  (Fig.  35.) 


Fig.  84 — Hagerdorn's  Needle  Xo.  3.     (Actual  Size.) 

Position — Hanging. 

Sterilization  of  lustriiments  and  Cleansing  Hands  of  Operator 
— Satisfactory  recoveries  largely  depend  upon  cleanliness  and  it 
behooves  th(^  operator  to  take  extra  precautions  in  this  particular 
regard.  Simply  because  the  animal  is  a  hog  is  no  i-eason  why  it 
should  be  carelessly  operated  upon.  Boil  the  instruments  for 
15  to  20  minutes,  after  which  immei'se  them  in  clean  ]>ans  con- 


Fig.  85— Testicle  of  "Ridgling"  Boar.     G,  Testes;    H,  Globus  Major;    I,  Globus  Minor; 
J,  Body  of  Epididymus;   K,  Spermatic  Cord. 


Animal  Castration 


113 


taiiiing  Lvsol  or  Cresol  Compound,  U.  S.  P.,  in  the  strength  of 
one  tablespoonf  ul  to  each  quart  of  water. 

Disinfection  of  Operative  Field — Clip  hair  fronx  belly  wall 
from  umbilicus  to  brim  of  pubis.  Wash  parts  with  tincture  green 
soap  and  warm  water,  using  scrub  brush,  after  which  paint  the 
skin  with  tincture  iodine. 

Operative  Technique — With  animal  hanging,  instruments  ster- 
ilized, hands  of  operator  and  site  of  incision  cleansed  and  dis- 
infected, proceed  as  follows:  Select  a  site  either  to  the  right 
or  left  of  the  median  line  of  abdomen  two  inches  below  brim  of 
pubis  for  the  abdominal  incision  (A)  (See  Fig.  86.)  Care  must 
be  exercised  in  order  to  avoid  the  urethra,  etc.,  whose  course  is 


Fig.  86 — Abdominal  Incision 


in  the  median  line.  This  incision  should  be  three  inches  long  and 
penetrate  all  the  coats  of  abdominal  wall.  The  index  and  second 
finger  are  now  introduced  into  the  abdominal  cavitv  and  a  search 


114 


AxiMAL  Castration 


Fig.  87 — Severing  Spermatic  Cord   witli   ]':inasculator. 

made  for  the  testicle.  This  organ  is  usually  short  corded  and 
hangs  against  posterior  abdominal  wall,  directly  in  front  of  the 
abdominal  incision.  If  the  spermatic  cord  be  long  then  the  tes- 
ticle itself  may  be  quite  a  distance  below  the  abdominal  incision, 
in  which  event  the  cord  is  located  and  drawn  through  abdominal 
incision  and  the  natural  consequence  is  that  the  testicle  will  fol- 
low. The  spermatic  cord  is  now  severed  and  its  stump  replaced 
in  the  abdominal  cavity.  If  a  cryptorchid  (both  testicles  un- 
descended) both  testicles  should  be  removed  through  the  one  ab- 
dominal incision.  The  abdominal  wall  should  now  be  closed  with 
three  interrupted  sutures.  These  sutures  should  be  what  is  known 
as  the  ''through  and  through"  variety— all  coats  of  the  abdominal 
wall  included  in  them. 

After  Care  and  Treatmeut — The  animal  should  be  confined  for 
eight  or  nine  days  in  a  small,  clean  pen;  during  this  period  the 


Animal  Castration 


115 


diet  should  be  limited, 
moving  the  sutures. 


Nature  will  ordinarily  take  care  of  re- 


CASTRATION    OF    THE   '' RUPTURED ''   BOAR. 

Scrotal  hernia  ("rupture")  in  the  boar  occurs  invariably  and 
directly  as  a  result  of  dilation  or  enlargement  of  the  internal 
abdominal  ring.    The  anatomical  function  of  the  internal  al)dom- 


Pig    88— Abdominal  Wall  Closed  by  Three  Interrupted  Sutures. 

inal  ring  is  to  allow  the  spemiatic  cord  to  pass  from  the  abdom- 
inal cavity  into  the  inguinal  canal  and  at  the  same  time  prohibit 
the  passage  of  any  portion  of  the  intestines  from  the  cavity  into 
that  canal. 


116 


Animal  Castration 


Causes — The  experience  of  others  and  my  oAvn  obsei'vatiun 
lead  me  to  believe  that  scrotal  hernia  of  the  hoar  is  one  condi- 
tion which  can  be  truthfnlly  laid  at  the  door  of  hereditary  trans- 
mission in  95  per  cent  of  cases.  They  are  of  congenital  origin. 
The  internal  abdominal  ring  being  open  at  time  of  birth  and 
nature  fails  to  close  it  afterwards.  In  my  own  practice  I  recall 
one  sow  in  partticular  which  presented  her  owner  with  a  bunch 
of  ruptured  pigs  twice  each  year.  This  sow  gave  birth  to  large 
litters  and  was  kept  as  a  brood  sow  on  that  account.  These  litters 
were  usually  about  equally  divided  between  boar  and  sow  pigs. 
During  the  three  years  that  this  sow  was  under  my  observation 
each  and  every  boar  pig  to  which  she  gave  birth  was  "ruptured." 
Twice  each  year  her  owner  would  come — five  miles  distance — 
with  the  pigs  in  a  market  wagon  for  operation,  and  strange  indeed 
to  say  he  never  lost  a  pig  as  a  result  therefrom. 


t- 

Xf 

^^ 

^J 

g 

^^M 

^ 

41 

1 

H 

W 

,  m 

^tw^^ 

V 
^ 

J 

fr 

Fig.  89 — "Ruptured"  Boar. 


Objects  and  Indications — All  "ruptured"  boars  should  be  cas- 
trated for  at  least  three  reasons:     (a)  Stop  their  breed  in  order 

"ruptured"  pigs,     (b)   For 


to  lessen  the  birth  of  congenitall} 


Animal  Castration  117 

the  same  reason  that  boars  are  usually  castrated,  viz.:  in  order 
to  increase  their  usefulness  and  value  for  food  purposes,  (c) 
In  order  that  they  may  peacefully  connningie  with  other  hogs  with- 
out exhibiting  the  natural  and  acquired  sexual  habits  of  the  boar. 
Most  that  has  been  written  and  published  in  regard  to  methods 
of  procedure  is  vague  and  some  of  it  misleading.  If  the  operator 
follows  the  directions  given  by  some  so-called  and  so  considered 
authorities — namely,  operation  via  scrotal  incision — he  will  make 
a  haphazard  job  and  be  a  monumental  failure  so  far  as  his  per- 
manent results  are  concerned.  Since  the  direct  cause  for  the 
bowel  protruding  into  the  inguinal  canal  and  scrotum  is  on  ac- 
count of  open  condition  of  the  internal  abdominal  ring,  then  how 
can  a  scrotal  operation  correct  the  troubled  Especially  is  this 
true  when  we  recognize  the  fact  that  by  no  known  means  can 
the  internal  abdominal  ring  be  reached  by  a  scrotal  incision  un- 
less it  be  by  a  probe  and  a  very  long  and  small  size  probe  at 
that.  Since  the  internal  abdominal  ring  must  be  closed  in  order 
to  correct  the  condition  and  since  this  ring  cannot  be  reached  via 
a  scrotal  incision,  it  becomes  nece^s.^'v  :'f  we  expect  success  to 
operate  by  an  incision  immediately  over  and  in  close  proximity 
to  the  ring.  This  operaton  is  the  one  which  we  will  now  illus- 
trate and  describe. 

Age — At  25  to  35  pounds  w^eight. 

Season — Early  spring,  late  fall  and  winter. 

Pre  pa  ratio)! — Withhold  food  for  twenty-four  hours  in  order 
to  have  alimentary  tract  empty. 

Bestraint — Suspended  by  means  of  a  rope  looped  above  hocks 
and  attached  to  a  beam  above. 

Position — Hanging  just  high  enough  so  that  the  operative  field 
will  be  opposite  the  operator's  breast. 

Instruments — 

1.  Miles'  hook  castrating  knife.     (Fig.  25.) 

2.  Emasculator.     (Fig.  80.) 

3.  Ilagerdorn  No.  3  needle  (Fig.  84)  carrying  20  inches  braid- 
ed silk  N'o.  12  for  suturing  skin  incision. 

4.  Surgeon's  full  curved  needle  No.  5  (Fig  180  &)  carrying  a 
sufficient  amount  of  chromicized  catgut  (ten-day)  to  close  the 
internal  abdominal  ring. 

5.  Richter's  needle  holder.     (Fig.  34.) 


118 


Axi:\[AL  Castration 


Sterilization  of  lustrnnients,  Cleansing  Operator'' s  Hands  and 
Operative  Field — Same  as  for  castration  of  the  "ridgling"  boar. 
(See  page  109.) 

Operative  Technique — AVith  the  pig  in  position,  the  instrn- 
ments  sterilized,  hands  of  operator  and  operative  field  cleansed 
and  disinfected,  we  proceed  as  follows:  Locate  the  internal  ab- 
dominal ring.  This  can  nsnally  be  done  by  pressure  applied  ex- 
ternallv  in  the  inguinal  region.     With  location  of  the  ring  as 


Fig.  90— View  of  the  Scrotum  After  Animal  Is  Hung  Up  for  Operation. 


Animal  Castration 


119 


Fig.  91 — Incision  in  Groin  Immediately  Over  the  Internal  Abdominal  Ring. 


120 


Axi:mal  Castratiox 


a  land  mark,  make  the  incision  thi-(>UL;li  the  skin  and  sul)entane()us 
connective  tissue  down  to  the  nuiscnlar  coat  of  the  a])dominal  wall. 
This  incision  should  be  made  about  three  to  four  inches  long  and 
its  center  should  be  directly  over  center  of  the  internal  abdom- 
inal riuix. 


Fig.  92 — View  of  Testicle,  Spermatic  Cord  and  Internal  Abdominal   Ring.     B,   Internal 
Abdominal  Ring;   C,  Spermatic  Cord;    D,  Testicle. 


Animal  Casteation 


121 


Fig    93— Closing  Internal  Abdominal  Ring  with  a   Purse  String  Suture. 


122 


Animal  Castration 


Fig.  94— Operation  Completed  by  Three  Interrupted  Sutures. 


Usually  by  this  time  the  intestines  have  already — by  gravity — 
returned  to  the  abdominal  cavity.  The  next  step  is  to  incise  the 
tmiica  vaginalis  near  the  ring,  wliich  exjDoses  the  cord.  By  trac- 
tion on  the  cord  the  testicle  can  usually  be  withdrawn  from  the 
scrotum,  through  the  inguinal  canal  and  out  of  the  incision.  The 
testicle  is  now  removed  by  severing  its  spermatic  cord  with  emas- 
culator,  after  Avhich  drop  stump  of  severed  cord  back  into  the 


Animal  Castration  123 

abdominal  cavity.  Figs.  91  and  92  afford  a  comprehensive  idea 
of  how  the  operation  has  been  proceeded  with  up  to  this  point. 
Now  by  reference  to  Figs.  93  and  94  you  will  observe  how  it  is 
completed.  Next  we  close  the  inguinal  ring  by  means  of  a  "purse- 
string"  suture  applied  in  such  a  manner  as  to  bring  the  serous 
surfaces  of  the  peritoneum  in  close  apposition.  It  is  important 
that  the  suture  be  of  absorbable  material,  otherwise  it  might  do 
damage  in  the  wound. 

The  only  thing  now  remaining  to  be  done  is  to  close  the  skin 
incision  which  is  easily  and  quickly  done  hy  three  interrupted 
sutures.     (See  F,  Fig.  94.) 

Sometimes  on  account  of  small  size  of  the  external  abdominal 
ring  it  is  impossible  to  withdraw  testicle  from  the  scrotum  by  ten- 
sion on  cord.  In  such  cases  a  scrotal  incision  is  made  for  pur- 
pose of  removing  the  testicle  only.  After  which  proceed  to  drop 
cord  into  the  abdominal  cavity  and  close  ring  and  skin  incision 
in  the  usual  way. 

After  Care  and  Treatment — Confine  the  animal  in  clean  pen 
of  small  size  for  ten  days ;  during  this  period  limit  the  feed.  Na- 
ture will  take  care  of  removing  the  sutures. 


124  Animal  Castration 

CHAPTER  IX. 

CASTRATION    OF   THE   RA:M. 

OJijcrfs  (1)1(1  fudirdfions — The  oijeratiuii  is  rarely  ever  per- 
formed u]»()ii  ai^ed  rams.  Its  greatest  application  is  to  lambs. 
Castration  hastens  growth  and  development  and  improves  the 
character  of  the  mutton  and  fleece.  Castrated  rams  and  laml)s  are 
known  as  "weathers"  and  "weathers"  command  a  nmch  higher 
market  ]:»rice  than  rams.  If  male  sheep  are  to  be  raised  to  full 
maturity  for  mutton  purposes  they  should  always  be  castrated  as 
laml)s, 

Afjc— From  a  week  to  10  days  old  is  a  x^opular  and  safe  age  at 
which  to  castrate.  However,  some  prefer  operating  later.  There 
is  no  dou])t  but  what  the  mortality  rate  following  castration 
rapidly  increases  with  age.  For  that  reason  if  for  no  other  the 
early  operation  is  most  advantageous. 

Season — AA^inter  and  early  spring.  Weather  conditions  play 
an  important  part  in  the  success  of  the  operation.  Cold  rains  and 
sudden  drops  in  temperature  should  l)e  avoided  as  nuich  as  ])ossi- 
ble.    Make  an  extra  effort  to  select  seasonal)le  weather. 

Prcjxirdfioii—JAmitcd  diet  for  2-1  hours  before  o])erating. 

Iicsf rdinl  and  Position— A  favorite  method— l)otli  as  regards 
restraint  and  position— is  for  the  assistant  to  grasp  the  legs  and 
place  the  animal  on  its  runi])  as  shown  in  Figure  95. 

Figure  9(3  illustrates  a  satisfactory  method  of  eonhning  large 
and  heavy  rams  for  castration.  i>oth  fore  and  the  right  hind  legs 
ai-e  fixed  togethei*  hy  means  of  a  cord  (E).  The  assistant  gi-asps 
left  hind  leg  (F)  and  flexes  it  against  the  ])ody.  Witli  right  hand 
(G)  he  controls  the  liead.  \Vith  a  ram  in  this  ])osition  the  scrotum 
is  readily  accessilde. 

Inslrnnicnts — 1.     Williams'  castrating  knife.     (Fig.  2.) 
2.     Swine  and  shee})  emasculator.     (Fig.  80.) 


Animal  Castration 


125 


Fig.  OS- 


Restraint  and  Position  for  Castration.    X.  Y.  Right  and  Left  Hand  of 
Assistant;  ;   Z,  Scrotum. 


Ajiatomy—The  scrotimi  is  decidedly  poneli  shaped  and  pos- 
sesses a  distinct  constructed  neck  at  its  summit.  Tlie  skin  of 
scrotum  is  covered  by  short,  dense  wool.  The  testicles  are  similar 
in  shape  to  those  of  the  bull  and  their  long  axis  is  almost  vertical. 
In  comparison  to  size  of  animal  the  testicles  of  the  ram  are  un- 
usually large.  The  testicle  of  a  60  pound  lamb  will  weigh  as  much 
as  the  testicle  of  a  1400  pound  horse. 

SterUizatiou  of  Instruments  and  Cleansing  Hands  of  the  Ope- 
r«ior— Boil  instruments  for  15  to  20  minutes  after  which  immerse 


126 


AxiMAL  Castration" 


Fig.  96 — Restraint  and  Position  for  Castration  of  Large  Rams.     E,  Tliree  Feet 

Fixed   Together;    F,  Assistant's   Left   Hand;    G,  Assistant's 

Right  Hand;    H,  Scrotum. 


fTr" 


Fig.  97 — Testicle  of  Ram.     L,  Globus  Major  of  Epididymus;   M,  Testes; 
N,   Spermatic  Cord. 


Animal  Castration 


127 


them  in  clean  vessel  containing  Lysol  or  Cresol  componnd  U.  S.  P. 
in  the  strength  of  one  tablespoonful  to  each  qnart  of  water. 

Disinfection  of  Operative  Field — The  scrotum  should  be 
soaked  by  means  of  pledget  of  cotton  saturated  with  antiseptic 
solution.  Cleanliness  here  goes  far  in  obtaining  successful  re- 
sults. If  time  is  not  too  limited  it  is  best  to  remove  wool  from 
scrotum  by  clipping. 

Operative  Technique— There  are  two  methods  of  making  the 
scrotal  incisions. 

(a)  Lateral,  Figure  98. 

(b)  End,  Figure  99. 


^ 


Fig.  98— Lateral  Incision.    A,  Right  Testicle  in  Scrotum;  B,  Scrotum;  C,  Knife; 
D,  Right  Hand;  E,  Left  Hand;  F,  Incision. 

In  making  the  lateral  or  side  incision  (Figure  98)  the  left  side 
of  scrotum  is  grasped  by  left  hand  of  operator  and  sufficient  ten- 


128 


AxiMAL  Castration 


sion  made — by  squeezing— to  render  skin  <»f  right  side  tense.  Witli 
knife  in  right  hand  the  incision  is  made  by  one  sweep  of  the  knife 
through  all  coats  of  the  scrotum  and  the  testicle  itself  exposed. 
This  incision  should  be  about  3  1-2  inches  long  and  extend  well 
down  to  the  apex.  The  o])posite  scrotal  incision  is  made  in  like 
manner.  With  the  right  hand  grasp  the  testicles  and  with  the  left 
hand  strip  the  spermatic  cords  of  their  coverings  until  they  are 


X 


-J- 


Fig.  99 — End  Incision.     H,  Left  Testicle  in  Scrotum;   G,  Riglit  Testicle  in 
Scrotum;    1,  Knife;   J,  Right  Hand;    K,  Left  Hand;    L,  Incision. 


well  isolated  as  high  as  the  summit  of  the  scrotum.  With  left 
hand  grasp  testicle  and  make  two  pounds  traction  on  the  cord— 
outwards— at  the  same  time  apply  emasculator  to  cord  and  force 
it  well  up  near  summit  of  scrotum.  Then  l)y  l)ringing  the  handles 
of  the  instrument  together  the  cord  and  its  coverings  are  severed. 
The  end  incision  method  (Figure  99),  has  many  advantages 


Animal  Castration 


129 


over  tlie  one  already  described  and  is  to  be  preferred.  Grasp  apex 
of  scrotum  in  left  hand  and  remove  one  third  of  it— from  the  apex 
—by  one  sweep  of  the  knife.  The  testicles  surrounded  by  their 
tunica  vaginalis  will  now  drop  down  below  the  incision.  By  a 
knick  of  the  knife  incise  the  tunics  and  expose  the  testicles,  after 
which  grasp  them  (of  course  separately)  with  the  right  hand  and 
make  outward  traction,  at  the  same  time  isolate  the  cords  by  strip- 
ping them  of  their  coverings  to  a  point  near  summit  of  scrotum. 
Next  with  left  hand  grasp  the  testicle,  at  the  same  time  producing 
two  pounds  outward  traction  on  the  spermatic  cord.  With  right 
hand  apply  emasculator  to  cord  and  by  forcing  it  well  up  to 
summit  of  scrotum  sever  the  cord  and  its  coverings  by  bringing 
handles  of  instrument  together.  Figure  100  illustrates  manner  in 
which  cords  are  severed  with  the  emasculator. 


Fig.  100 — Severing  Spermatic  Cords  and  Their  Coverings  with  Emasculator. 


After  Care  and  Treatment— ^he  most  essential  precaution  to 
be  taken  after  rams  and  lambs  are  castrated  is  to  place  them  in 
sanitary  surroundings,  away  from  danger  of  wound  contamination 
by  barn  and  barnyard  manure  and  dirt.  In  favorable  weather  pas- 


130  AxiMAL  Castration 

ture  is  the  ideal  ])lace.  In  l)ad  weather  a  jn-eviously  cleaned  hall- 
way or  shed  well  bedded  with  fresh  straw  is  to  be  desired.  Sheep 
are  quite  prone  to  septic  infection,  hence  to  attain  successful  re- 
sults infection  must  be  strictly  guarded  against  for  several  days 
after  castration.    Never  operate  during  "fly  time." 


Animal  Castration  131 

CHAPTER  X. 

CASTRATION   OF   THE   DOG. 

Objects  and  I  udi  cat  ions— The  principal  object  to  be  attained 
in  castrating  the  dog  is  to  deprive  him  of  his  nightly  habit  of  "visit- 
ing the  society  female  members  of  the  canine  species  in  his 
neighborhood  and  oftentimes  in  some  other  male  dog's  neighbor- 
hood." Castration  has  the  direct  and  immediate  effect  of  inducing 
a  male  dog  to  be  contented  with  his  home  surroundings.  The  only 
other  reason  for  castration  would  be  for  the  relief  of  certain  path- 
ological conditions  of  the  scrotum,  testicle,  inguinal  canal  and 
penis. 

Age— Dogs  can  be  safely  castrated  at  almost  any  age.  However, 
the  younger  the  better.  Puppies  may  be  easily  castrated  at  4 
weeks  old. 

Season  — The  selection  of  season  does  not  play  any  important 
part  in  castration  of  the  dog.  The  operation  may  be  done  at  any 
season. 

Preparation— 1^  one. 

Restraint — Always  apply  a  tape  muzzle  to  begin  with.  Small 
dogs  can  be  easily  and  safely  held  by  an  assistant  as  shown  in 
Figure  101.  The  fore  and  hind  legs  are  crossed  over  one  another 
and  held  tightly.  The  index  finger  of  each  hand  is  crossed  under 
the  throat  and  the  thumbs  are  passed  back  behind  the  head.  In 
this  position  and  held  in  this  manner  the  scrotum  is  available  and 
the  operation  may  be  safely  proceeded  with. 

Large  dogs  may  be  held  by  two  or  more  assistants  or  they  may 
be  secured  by  tying  the  legs  together  as  illustrated  in  Figure  105. 
The  operator  should  stand  out  of  range  of  the  strong  stream  of 
urine  which  is  sure  to  come  as  soon  as  the  knife  strikes  the 
testicle. 

Instruments — 1.     Williams'  castrating  knife.     (Figiu'e  2.) 
2.     Canine  and  feline  emasculator     (Figures  102  and  103.) 


132 


AxiMAL  Castration 


Fig.  101 — Restraint  of  Dog  for  Castration. 


Fig.  102 — McKillip's  Canine  and  Feline  Emasculator. 


Animal  Castration  133 


Fig.    103 — Canine   and    Feline   Emasculator. 

Anatomy— The  scrotum  is  suspended  below  the  anis.  The 
raphe  or  "median  line"  is  not  well  marked.  The  skin  covering 
the  scrotum  is  soft  and  thin  and  covered  sparsely  with  short  stiff 
hairs. 

Spermatic  Cord—The  spermatic  cord  and  its  covering — tunica 
vaginalis— are  slender  in  size  and  long. 

Testicle — The  testicle  is  oval  in  shape  and  comparatively  small. 
Its  long  axis  is  oblique. 

Sterilization  of  Instruments  and  Cleansing  Operator's  Hands— 
Boil  instruments  for  15  to  20  minutes,  after  which  immerse  them 
in  La^soI  or  Cresol  Compound  U.  S.  P.,  in  the  strength  of  one  table- 
spoonful  to  each  quart  of  warm  water.  The  operator's  hands 
should  1)6  thoroughly  washed  with  tincture  green  soap  and  warm 
water— using  scrub  brush— after  w^hich  wash  them  in  above  men- 
tioned antiseptic  solution. 

Preparation  of  Operative  Field— It  much  hair  is  present  on 
the  scrotum  it  should  be  clipped  off,  after  which  wash  scrotum 
with  antiseptic  solution  and  paint  it  with  tincture  iodine. 

Operative  Technique — The  modus  operandi  is  very  simple  and 
only  requires  a  few  seconds  time  in  its  perfomiance.  With  left 
thumb  and  index  finger  grasp  scrotum  above  testicles  and  make  its 
skin  tense  b\^  squeezing.    With  knife  in  right  hand— b}^  two  sweeps 


134 


AxiMAL  Castration 


/.---,.       ^-// 


J     k 


Fig.  104 — Genitals  of  the  Dog.  (Ellenberger-Leisering  Atlas.)  a.  Acetabulum;  b, 
Obturator  Foramen;  c,  Ischio — Cavernosum  Porton;  e,  Vas  Deferens;  f,  Bulbus  Glandis; 
i,  Testicle;   j,  Tunica  Vaginalis;    k,  Scrotum;    1,  Prepuce;    m,  Spermatic  Cord. 


—the  two  scrotal  incisions  arc  made  exjiosinL;'  both  testicles.  These 
incisions  shonld  be  amply  lai'i>'e  and  extend  well  down  to  lower 
portion  of  scrotnm  in  order  to  afford  fr(H'  di'aina,i>-e. 

The  eonclndiii,!;-  stc])  is  to  i^ras])  testicle  with  left  hand  at  the 
same  time  makini--  slight  traction  on  tlie  cord.  With  ]'ii;ht  hand 
the  emasculatoT  is  ])laced  on  the  curd  and  forced  down  (dose  to  the 
scrotal  incisions.  The  cord  is  now  severed  by  bringing  handles 
of  instrnment  together. 

After  Care  (Oid  Treat Hiriif — Alxmt  all  that  is  necessarv  is  exer- 


Animal  Castration 


135 


Fig.  105 — Scrotal  Incisions.    K,  Left  Hand  of  Assistant;  L,  Scrotal  Incisions; 
M,  Legs  Fixed  Together  with  Cord;   N,  Muzzle. 

cise  and  sanitary  surroundings  with  daily  observation  for  purpose 
of  detecting  the  appearance  of  the  several  sequelae  of  castration. 

CASTRATION  OF  THE  CRYPTORCHID  AND  MONORCHID  DOG. 
("RroOLING.^") 

Objects  and  Indications—On  account  of  the  universally  recog- 
nized fact  that  cryptorchidism  in  animals  is  transmitted  by 
heredity,  it  is  very  important  that  such  a  dog  should  not  be  used 
for  stud  purposes.  This  applies  more  particularly  to  the  monor- 
chid  than  it  does  to  the  cryi^torchid.    On  account  of  the  former — 


106 — Severing  Spermatic  Cord  with  Kiiuisi  iilator.     A,  Table;   B,  Muzzle; 
C,  Legs  Fixed  Together  with  Cord:    D,  Left  Testicle;    E,  Right 
Testicle;  F,  Emasculator. 


136 


AXIMAL  CaSTRATIOX 


with  one  testicle  descended— l)eiiig  al)le  to  propagate  his  species 
while  the  latter — both  testicles  inside  the  abdominal  cavity— is 
incapable  of  reproduction.  In  order  to  cause  the  breed  of  such 
animals  to  cease  castration  should  be  resorted  to.  Aside  from  the 
above  reason  for  castration  the  operation  is  valuable  in  causing  a 
dog  to  remain  contented  at  home. 

Age— All  ages,  preferabty  young  dogs. 

Season — All  seasons. 

Preparation— It  is  essential  to  have  the  alimentary  tract 
empty.  This  is  accomplished  by  withholding  food  for  24  hours 
previous  to  operating. 


Fig.  107 — View  of  Inteinal  Abdominal  Organs.    G,  Descended  Testicle;  H,  Rectum; 

T,  Urinary  Bladder;  J,  Undescended  Testicle  Located  in  the 

Sub-Lumbar  Region;   K,  Intestines. 


Animal  Casteation 


137 


Restraint— 'Pre ferahly  on  operating  table  elevated  to  perpen- 
dicular position  or  in  the  absence  of  a  table  the  animal  may  be 
hung  up  to  a  wall  or  post.  In  either  event  the  tape  muzzle  is  ap- 
plied as  a  i3rotection  against  bites. 

Instruments— 1.     Miles'  hook  castrating  knife.     (Figure  25.) 

2.  Emasculator.     (Figures  102  and  103.) 

3.  Richter's  needle  holder.     (Figure  34.) 

4.  Surgeon's  needle  (full  curved)  carrying  20  inches  of  No.  12 
braided  silk  for  sutures. 

Anatomy— A  comprehensive  idea  of  the  location  and  relation  of 


Fig.   108 — Abdominal  Incision. 


138 


AxiMAL  Castration 


the  parts  concerned  in  this  ()i)ci'ati()n  can  l)e  had  l)y  reference  to 
Figure  107. 

Sterilization  of  Instruuioits  and  Cleansing  Oper((tor\s  Hands 
— Boil  instruments  for  15  to  20  minutes,  after  which  immerse  them 
in  Lysol  or  Cresol  Compound  U.  S.  P.,  in  the  strength  of  one  table- 
spoonful  to  one  quart  of  warm  water.  Wash  hands  thoroughly 
with  soap  and  wanii  water,  using  scrub  brush. 

Disinfection  of  Operative  Field — Clip  or  shave  hair  from  field 
of  operation  after  which  wash  with  soap  and  warm  water  until 
parts  are  visibly  clean.  Sponge  off  with  antiseptic  solution  and 
paint  \\\i\\  tincture  iodine. 

Operative  Technique— li  left  testicle  is  the  one  undescended  a 


Fig.   109 — Severing  Spermatic   Cord  with  the  EinasciUatoi 
B,  Testicle;    C,  Emasculator. 


A,  Incision: 


Animal  Castration 


139 


point  is  selected  to  the  left  of  the  median  line  of  the  abdomen  and 
abont  midway  between  brim  of  pelvis  and  prepuce  (See  Figure 
108). 

The  incision  is  made  2  1-2  inches  long— through  all  coats  of  the 
aJxlominal  wall.  Through  this  incision  the  index  finger  of  right 
hand  is  passed  and  a  search  made  in  the  sub-lumbar  region  for  the 
spermatic  cord.  This  cord  is  usually  easy  to  locate.  Withdraw 
cord  through  abdominal  incision  and  the  testicle  follows  natur- 
ally. Sever  cord  with  the  emasculator  (Figure  109)  and  replace 
its  stump  in  abdominal  cavity.  All  that  remains  to  be  done  is  to 
suture  up  abdominal  incision.  This  is  done  by  two  "through  and 
through"  interrupted  sutures.    See  Figure  110. 


Fig.  110 — Incision  Closed  with  3  Interrupted  Sutures.     D,  Sutures;  E,  Incision. 


140  Animal  Castration 

After  Care  and  Treatment  — The  dog  should  be  placed  in  sani- 
tary close  quarters  for  6  or  7  days ;  during  this  period  no  exercise 
must  be  allowed  and  the  diet  should  be  of  a  light,  easily  digestible 
character,  and  limited.  The  two  end  sutures  may  be  removed  on 
the  third  dav  and  the  middle  one  on  the  fifth  dav. 


Animal  Castration 


141 


CHAPTER  XI. 


CASTRATION  OF  THE  CAT. 


Objects  and  Indications— In  order  that  they  will  remain  con- 
tented at  home. 

Age— The  operation  can  be  done  safely  at  any  age. 

Season — All  seasons. 

Preparation— ^ame  as  for  castration  of  the  dog. 

Restraint — Remember  that  a  cat  will  scratch  as  well  as  bite  and 
we  must  take  the  necessary  precautions  to  protect  ourselves  from 
both.  Two  favorite  methods  of  restraint— either  of  which  are 
satisfactory— are  as  follows: 

(a)  With  all  four  feet  tucked  up  against  the  abdomen,  wrap 
the  animal  in  a  towel,  leaving  its  posterior  portion  exposed.  See 
Figure  111. 


Fig.  Ill — Castration  with  Cat  Wrapped  in  Towel. 


142 


Animal  Castration 


(]))  Place  animal  in  an  ordinary  rubber  boot  with  hind  legs 
thrust  through  the  linger  straps.    See  Figure  112. 

Positron— Dovsal. 
InstnimentsSame  as  for  castration  of  the  dog.       See  page 
131. 

Anatomif — Similar  to  that  of  the  dog  except  on  a  smaller  scale. 

Sterilization  of  Listnmtents  and  Cleansing  Operator's  Hands— 
Same  as  for  castration  of  the  dog.    See  page  133. 

Preparation  of  Operative  Field — Same  as  that  for  castration 
of  the  dog,  with  the  exception  that  special  pains  miist  be  taken  to 
see  that  the  hair  from  scrotum  is  removed.    See  page  133. 

Operative  TecJiniqae-Saine  as  for  castration  of  the  dog.  See 
pages  133-134. 


Fig.  112 — Castration  with  Cat  in  a  Rubber  Boot.     A,  Boot;   B,  B,  Finger  Straps; 
C,  Severing  Spermatic  Cord  with  the  Emasculator. 


Fig.  113— Testicle  After  Removal. 


After  Care  and  Treatment— Bsiiiy  observation  for  the  appear- 
ance of  sequelae  of  castration. 


Animal  Castration  143 

CHAPTER  XII. 

CAPONIZING. 

Definition — Caponizing  is  a  term  applied  to  castrating  fowls. 
In  this  country  the  operation  is  practiced  almost  exclusively  on 
male  chickens  (^'roosters"),  and  sometimes  turkeys.  Such  fowls 
when  castrated  are  known  as  capons.  The  caj^on  l3ears  the  same 
relation  to  the  "rooster"  as  the  "steer"  does  to  the  bull,  the  "bar- 
row" to  the  boar,  etc. 

History— Ji  is  impossible  to  say  just  how  long  the  operation 
of  caponizing  has  been  performed.  It  seems  quite  certain,  how- 
ever, that  the  practice  was  familiar  to  the  Chinese  more  than  two 
thousand  years  ago.  Later  it  was  practiced  by  the  Greeks  and 
Romans  and  through  medieval  times,  by  the  people  of  middle  and 
southern  Europe,  until  in  recent  years  it  has  been  introduced  into 
America.  At  present  capons  are  most  imiversally  known  and  ap- 
preciated in  France,  although  within  the  last  few  years  the  busi- 
ness of  producing  them  has  advanced  rapidly  in  this  country. 
Much  of  the  larger  part  of  the  industry  is  confined  to  that  portion 
of  the  United  States  east  of  Philadelphia,  though  increasing  num- 
bers of  capons  are  being  raised  in  the  North  Central  States.  Dur- 
ing the  winter  months  "capon"  is  regularly  quoted  in  the  markets 
of  the  larger  eastern  cities.  Massachusetts  and  New  Jersey  are  the 
great  centers  for  the  growing  of  capons,  while  Boston,  New  York 
and  Philadelphia  are  the  great  markets. 

Objects  and  Indications — Caponizing  changes  a  male  chicken's 
disposition  to  the  extent  that  he  no  longer  shows  an  inclination  to 
fight,  becomes  sluggish  and  quiet  and  more  docile  than  formerly. 
The  true  capon  never  crows.  The  comb  and  wattles  cease  growing. 
His  society  is  not  sought  by  other  chickens— either  roosters  or 
hens— he  becomes  an  outcast  and  on  this  account  oftentimes  takes 
up  with  baby  chicks  even  to  the  extent  of  becoming  a  mother  to 
them ;  scratch  and  work  for  them  by  day  and  hover  them  by  night. 
On  account  of  the  more  peaceful  disposition  of  the  capon  his  body 
develops  rapidly  and  he  grows  larger  and  takes  on  fat  more  readily 


144 


Animal  Castration 


tliau  the  urdinaiy  male  bird.  At  same  time  the  body  is  developing 
the  texture  of  the  flesh  is  improving,  and  it  is  now  a  well  recognized 
fact  that  the  flavor  and  texture  of  the  flesh  of  a  capon  is  as  much 
improvement  over  that  of  a  rooster  as  the  meat  of  a  steer  is  over 
that  of  a  bull.  Hence  capons  are  entitled  to  and  do  command  a 
higher  market  price  than  either  roosters  or  hens.  Capons  are  less 
trouble  to  care  for  and  to  keep  within  prescribed  bounds  than 
other  chickens.  The  economic  value  of  caponizing  justifies  its 
more  general  practice. 

Selection  of  Breeds— AIwrys  select  from  the  large  breeds,  viz: 
Light  Brahmas,  Cochins,  Plymouth  Rocks,  Langshans,  A¥yan- 
dotts,  Orpingtons,  etc. 

Age — Two  or  three  months  is  the  best  age  at  which  to  operate. 
The  chicken  should  weigh  from  1  1-2  to  2  pounds.  Never  operate 
after  five  months  old.  The  mortality  is  low  in  young  fowls  and  in- 
creases with  age. 

^S'^rt.S'oy/  — Smnnier— June,  July  and  August. 


Fig.  114 — Restraint  of  the  Fowl  for  Caponizing.    A,  A,  Weight  at  Ends  of  Cords; 
B,  Cords  Looped  Around  Legs;   C,  Cord  Looped  Around  Wings. 


Animal  Castration 


145 


Restmiut— The  most  economical  and  at  the  same  time  most 
satisfactory  method  of  restraint  is  illustrated  in  Figure  114.  With 
a  barrel  or  box  used  as  an  improvised  operating  table  one  cord  is 
looped  around  the  wings  and  another  around  the  legs.  The  length 
of  these  cords  will  depend  upon  the  size  of  box  or  barrel  being  used. 
To  the  free  end  of  each  cord  a  weight— one  half  brick— is  attached. 
The  fowl  is  now  laid  on  table  and  the  weights  Avill  produce  suffi- 
cient traction  on  cords  to  hold  it  in  proper  position. 

Another  method  of  restraint  favored  and  used  by  some  is  a 
specially  constructed  board.  See  Figure  115.  It  will  be  observed 
that  a  self -locking  staple  is  used  to  confine  the  wings,  while  the 
legs  are  confined  by  a  loop  strap  with  a  weight  suspended  at  its 
end.    The  holes  through  board  makes  it  adjustable  to  all  size  fowls. 


Fig.  115 — Canonizing  Board.     A,  Board;    C,  Feet  Imprisoned  in  Strap  Loop; 
B,Weight  on  End  of  Strap;  E,  Wings  Imprisoned  in  Staple. 


Instruments — several  different  styles  and  kinds  of  instruments 
for  performing  the  caponizing  operation  are  on  the  American 


146 


Animal  Castration 


market.    Most  of  them  are  satisfactory  after  the  operator  becomes 
accustomed  to  handling  them.     The}^  consist  of: 

1.  Knife  for  making  abdominal  incision. 

2.  Spreaders  or  retractors  for  separating  the  ribs. 

3.  Appliances  for  removing  the  testicle. 

Some  of  the  best  of  each  of  these  are  illustrated  below.  The 
oi^erator  should  make  his  own  selection.  The  author's  preference 
is  the  "Farmer"  Miles  set. 


Fig.  116 — Miles'  Caponizing  Knife. 


Fig.  117 — Miles'  Spreaders. 


Fig.   118 — Spring   Spreader 


Animal  Castration 


147 


Fig.  119 — Wire  Spring  Spreader. 


Fig.    120 — Miles'   Forceps. 


Fig.  121 — Scoop  and  Hook. 


Fig.  122 — Clipping  Knife,  Scoop  and  Hook. 


Anatomy — The  testicles  are  situated  in  the  abdominal  cavity. 
They  are  small,  bean-shaped,  soft,  very  friable  and  light  colored. 
Their  location  is  on  each  side  of  the  vertebral  colmnn,  immediately 
behind  the  lungs  and  in  front  of  the  kidneys.  See  Figure  123. 
They  are  opposite  the  last  intercostal  space.  Above  them  is  the 
aorta  and  vena  cava. 


148 


Animal  Castration 


Fig.  123— View  of  Testicles. 

Preparation  — 1^\\Q  most  essential  step  connected  with  caponiz- 
ing  is  to  have  the  fowls  entirely  empty  at  time  of  operating.  This 
is  accomplished  by  Avithholding  food  and  water  for  30  hours. 
Never  attempt  to  operate  upon  a  "full"  chicken  unless  3^ou  are 
looking  foi'  trouble. 

Operative  Technique— TJu\ess  a  satisfactory  artificial  light  is 
available  the  j^roper  time  of  day  at  which  to  operate  is  between 
the  hours  of  10  a.  m.  and  2  p.  m.,  as  at  this  time  the  sun  is  high  and 
in  proper  position  to  reflect  its  bright  light  into  the  abdominal 
cavity.  Good  light  is  one  of  the  essentials.  Never  attenij^t  to 
operate  without  it.  With  fowl  properly  confined  and  in  such  posi- 
tion as  will  enal)le  the  sunlight  to  illuminate  the  abdominal  cavity 
—  operate  out  of  doors— instruments  and  hands  of  operator 
clean,  proceed  as  follows: 

1.  Pluck  feathers  from  field  of  operation. 

2.  Chill  parts  by  glass  full  of  ice  water  lieing  slowly  poured 
over  skin.  This  chilling  process  has  a  good  influence  in  preventing 
cutaneous  hemorrhage. 


Animal  Castration 


149 


3.  With  knife  in  right  hand  make  abdominal  incision  by  incis- 
ing the  muscles  in  last  intercostal  space  (between  last  two  ribs). 
Since  the  intercostal  artery  passes  along  the  posterior  (back)  bor- 
der of  the  ribs,  this  incision  should  closely  follow  the  anterior 
(front)  border  of  the  last  rib.  The  first  incision  includes  all  layers 
of  the  abdominal  wall  with  exception  of  the  peritoneum. 

4.  Insert  spreaders  and  spread  the  ribs  apart  sufficiently  to  ad- 
mit scoop  or  forceps. 

5.  Knick  peritoneum.     This  will  open  the  abdominal  cavity. 

6.  The  testicles  are  now  located  and  if  both  are  to  be  removed 
from  one  abdominal  incision  the  lowermost  one  should  be  removed 
first,  otherwise  the  hemorrhage  incident  to  removing  the  upper  one 
would  interfere  with  removal  of  the  lower.  There  is  not  serious 
objection  to  operating  from  both  sides,  in  which  event  the  upper- 
most testicle  is  removed  first. 


Fig.  124 — Diagrammatic  Illustration  Showing  Position  of  Testicles  and  the  Method  of 
Their  Removal.  A,  Right  Testicle;  B,  Left  Testicle;  C,  Scoop  Applied  to  Spermatic 
Cord;   D,  Vertebral  Column;   E,  Incision  in  Last  Intercostal  Space;   F,  Spreader. 


150 


Axi:\rAL  Castration 


With  scoop  or  forceps  ai)plied  to  the  speniiatic  cord— care  be- 
ing taken  not  to  include  the  aorta  or  vena  cava— the  testicle  is 
removed  by  twisting  the  cord  with  several  turns  of  the  instrument. 
Be  sure  and  remove  the  entire  testicle  as  if  any  portion  of  it  is 
left,  the  fowl  will  crow,  and  be  what  is  known  as  a  "  slip. "  "  Slips ' ' 
are  not  capons  and  are  undesirable. 

7.  Remove  the  spreaders.  This  allows  the  ribs  to  come  together 
and  close  the  alxlominal  Avound.  If  a  mistake  has  been  made  by 
severing  either  the  aorta  or  vena  cava  the  fowl  will  die  in  a  very 
few  minutes  from  internal  hemorrhage.  Should  death  occur  from 
such  source  the  fowl  can  be  used  for  food. 


Fig.  125 — lleinoving  Testicle  with  Scoop.     E,  Abdominal  Incision  in  Last  Inter- 
costal Space;   F,  Scoop  Applied;   G,  Spreaders  Applied. 

On  account  of  the  almost  complete  immunity  of  the  chicken 
from  septic  infection,  healing  of  wound  usually  takes  place  by 
first  intrusion  and  the  fowl  makes  a  quick  and  satisfactory  re- 
covery. 

After  Care  and  Treatment— JJj)on  being  released  from  the 
operating  table  the  capons  are  usually  put  in  a  closed  yard  where 
they  can  find  shelter,  food  and  water  and  can  be  kept  quiet.  No 
roosts  are  ju'ovided,  as  the  less  flying  and  jumping  they  do  the 
sooner  will  the  wound  heal.     The  capons  seem  to  be  very  little 


Animal  Castration 


151 


Fig.  126 — Removing  Testicle  with  Miles'  Forceps.     J,  Spreaders  Applied; 
K,  Forceps  Applied;   L,  Abdominal  Incision. 


inconvenienced  by  tlie  operation,  and  water  and  soft  feed  mixed 
witli  sweet  skim  milk  can  be  given  immediately.  Some  feeders 
give  this  in  unlimited  quantity,  while  others  feed  more  sparingly 
for  a  time. 

For  a  week  or  ten  days  the  newly  made  capons  should  be  care- 
fully observed  to  see  whether  they  become  "wind  puffed."  This  is 
a  condition  caused  by  air  gathering  under  and  puffing  out  the  skin 
near  the  womid.  When  observed  it  can  be  readily  relieved  by 
pricking  the  skin  Avith  a  needle  or  knife  and  pressing  out  the  air. 

Mortality— About  1  to  2  per  cent. 


152  Animal  Castration 


PART  IL 
SPAYING. 

Synonyms — Ovariectomy,  Oophorectomy,  Ovariotomy. 

Definition — Spaying  is  a  term  applied  to  the  operation  of  un- 
sexing  the  female. 


Animal  Castration  153 

CHAPTER  I. 

MARE  SPAYING. 

Objects  and  Indications — The  principle  indication  for  remov- 
ing the  ovaries  from  mare  is  to  correct  the  disagreeable  and  dan- 
gerous vice  known  as  npnphomania,  the  symptoms  of  which  are 
as  follows:  Usually  when  such  animals  are  touched,  especially 
while  applying  harness  and  saddles,  they  squat,  switch  their  tails, 
kick,  bite,  urinate,  etc.,  while  at  the  same  time  the  clitoris  moves 
actively.  This  behavior  of  the  clitoris  is  similar  to  its  action  dur- 
ing oestrum  (heat) .  Some  nymphomaniac  mares  are  affected  with 
such  behavior  continuously,  while  in  others  it  is  periodical.  The 
intensity  of  the  vice  also  varies  in  degree  in  different  individuals. 
Some  are  affected  to  the  extent  of  actual  viciousness.  Such  ani- 
mals are  a  public  and  private  nuisance,  undesirable  to  own  and 
dangerous  to  the  attendant.  Usually  removal  of  the  ovaries  from 
this  class  of  mares  will  correct  the  trouble.  The  results  of  the 
operation  are  not  immediate.  In  fact,  even  apparent  improvement 
may  not  be  had  until  several  weeks — possibly  several  months — 
have  elapsed.  The  improvement  is  gradual  and  oftentimes  slow, 
even  after  it  actually  begins.  Spaying  is  always  justified  in  mares 
of  this  class. 

Age — Spay  regardless  of  age  when  operation  is  indicated. 

Season — Spring,  winter  and  fall. 

Preparation — It  is  necessary  for  the  intestinal  tract — rectum 
in  particular — to  be  empty.  This  is  usually  accomplished  by  with- 
holding feed  for  30  hours  pre^dous  to  operating.  To  make  sure 
that  the  rectum  is  empty  it  is  well  to  administer  an  enema  imme- 
diately previous  to  operating.  Douche  out  the  vagina  and  wash 
anis,  A^ulva,  tail  and  surrounding  parts  with  Lysol  or  Cresol  com- 
pound U.  S.  P.,  in  the  strength  of  one  tablespoonful  to  each  quart 
of  water.  Bandage  upper  one-third  of  tail.  Chloral  or  cannabis 
Indica  administered  30  or  40  minutes  before  operating  is  helpful 
in  most  instances. 

Position — Standing. 


154 


Animal  Castration 


Restraint — If  a  suitable  operating  stock  is  available  it  should 
be  used.  In  lieu  of  the  stocks  a  narrow  box  stall  and  slings  are  the 
next  best  method  of  restraint  for  spaying  operation.  When  nar- 
row stall  and  sling  are  used  it  becomes  necessaiy  to  confine  the 
hind  feet  in  such  a  way  that  the  operator  is  not  subjected  to  the 
danger  of  kicks.  The  simplest  method  which  will  answer  the  pur- 
pose is  illustrated  in  Figure  127.  It  consists  of  the  nose  twitch 
applied  and  held  by  an  assistant;  also  an  18-foot  %-inch  cottcm 
rope  and  one  hobble  strap.  Loop  end  of  rope  around  off  hind 
pastern,  then  pass  it  through  D  of  near  hind,  then  upwards  and 
forwards  between  fore  legs,  over  withers  and  under  main  rope 
behind  elbow.  Another  method  is  the  Hippo  Lasso.  (See  Figs. 
135  and  136.) 


Fig.  127 — Restraint  for  Spaying  in  Standing  Posture. 


While  the  last  two  methods  described  are  simple  and  will  answer 
the  purpose,  there  is  at  least  one  qiiite  serious  objection  to  them, 
viz:  The  animal  may  in  her  struggles  cast  herself,  or  she  may 
voluntarily  lie  down,  which  greatly  interferes  with  the  progress 


Animal  Castration 


155 


of  the  operation.    Whenever  possible  it  is  always  advisable  to  for- 
tify yourself  against  the  animal  lying  down. 

Instruments — 1.  Colin 's  Scalpel  (Fig.  128)  is  decidedly  the 
most  satisfactory  knife  for  vaginal  spaying.  This  knife  possesses 
a  heavy  blade  with  wide  belly  guarded  by  an  easily  manipulated 
sliding  shield.  A  knife  thus  constructed  can  be  safely  handled  in- 
side the  vaginal  canal. 


Pig.  128— f'olin's  Scalpel 


2.  Williams'  Ratchet  Spaying  Ecraseur  (Fig.  129).  This  in- 
strument is  so  constructed  that  it  takes  up  very  little  space  in  the 
vaginal  canal,  and  is  sufficiently  long  to  reach  the  ovaries  of  the 


Fig.  129 — Williams'  Ratchet  Spaying  Ecraseur. 

largest  mare  or  cow.  The  ratchet  handle  enables  operator  to  manip- 
ulate the  instrument  with  one  hand  while  the  other  hand  remains 
in  the  cavity.  If  an  extra  assistant  is  available  for  the  purpose  of 
handling  the  instrument  on  the  outside,  then  Dunn's  spaying 
ecraseur  (Fig.  130)  is  an  excellent  instrument. 


Fig.  130 — Dunn's  Spaying  Ecraseur. 


3.  Vaginal  spaying  speculum.  There  are  two  satisfactory 
spaying  speculums  now  on  the  market.  A,  Williams'  Speculum 
(Fig.  133);  B,  Paseley's  Speculum  (Fig.  134). 


15(3 


Animal  Castration 


A)iatviny — In  order  to  spay  mares  satisfactorily  it  is  essential 
that  a  general  idea  of  the  anatomy  of  vnlva,  vagina,  nterus  and 
ovaries  be  possessed.  Lack  of  space  here  forbids  going  into  minnte 
detail.    However,  the  more  important  points  will  have  attention. 

Vulva — The  vnlva  is  the  external  opening  of  the  genital  and 
nrinarv  tracts.    It  is  an  ovoid  slit  sitnated  in  the  perineal  region 


Fig.  131— View  of  Internal  Genitals.     A,  Rectum.;  B,  Vagina;   C,  Uterus;   D,  U,  Cornua; 
E,  E,  Ovaries;   F,  F,  Broad  Ligaments;  G,  G,  Abdominal  Walls. 

below  the  anis,  and  consists  of  two  lips  and  two  commissnres.  The 
space  between  the  vulva  below  and  the  anis  above  is  the  perineum. 
In  a  depression  on  its  floor  (Fossa  Navicularis)  lies  the  clitoris. 


Animal  Castration 


157 


In  Yii'giu  mares  the  hymen  separates  the  vulva  from  the  vagina. 
Inside,  on  the  floor  of  the  vulva,  opens  the  meatus  urinarius,  which 
is  the  outlet  from  the  bladder.  The  mucous  membrane  lining  in- 
side of  vulva  is  rose  colored,  and  the  skin  covering  it  externally  is 
soft,  thin  and  devoid  of  hair. 

Vagina — The  vagina  is  situated  between  the  rectum  and  blad- 
der, and  is  tubular  in  shape.  It  extends  horizontally  through  the 
pelvic  cavity  from  the  cervix  to  the  vulva.  Its  walls  are  capable 
of  great  distension.  The  vagina  varies  in  length  in  different  indi- 
viduals. It  is  usually  from  8  to  10  inches  long.  Superiorly  it  is 
related  to  the  rectum,  inferiorly  to  the  bladder,  laterally  to  the 
pelvic  wall. 

Uterus — The  uterus   (womb)    is    a    musculo-membranous  sac 
situated  partly  in  the  pelvic  region.    It  consists  of  a  body  and  two 


V 


Fig.    132— External    and   Internal   Genital    Organs   of   Mare.      A,   Vulva;    B,   Vagina;    C, 
Cervix  (neck  of  womb);  D,  D,  Horns  and  Fallopian  Tubes;  E,  E,  Ovaries;  F,  Fundus. 

cornua.  Superiorly  it  is  related  with  the  rectum,  which  passes 
between  its  horns  while  it  is  suspended  laterally  by  the  broad 
ligaments.  Inferiorly  it  is  related  with  the  bladder  and  convo- 
lutions of  the  intestines.  Its  anterior  extremity  is  known  as  the 
fundus,  and  is  continuous  with  the  cornua.  Its  posterior  extremity 
is  continuous  with  the  vagina,  constituting  the  cervix  or  neck  of 


158  Animal  Castration 

the  womb.  This  cervix  is  round,  hard  and  thick.  In  its  center 
is  a  tube  like  opening  (Fissure).  The  cornua  spring  laterally 
from  the  anterior  extremity  of  the  uterus  and  pass  upwards  and 
forwards,  and  to  these  the  suspensory  ligaments  are  attached.  At 
their  sunmiit  the  fallopian  tubes  enter.  The  uterus  has  three  open- 
ings, viz :  Ostium  Internum  leading  through  the  cervix,  and  the 
Ostium  Uterinum  at  the  end  of  each  horn. 

FalJopian  Tubes — These  are  prolongations  of  the  uterus  and 
are  for  the  purpose  of  conveying  the  ovum  from  the  ovaries  to  the 
uterus.  They  are  10  to  12  inches  long  and  extend  from  the  ovaries 
above  to  the  cornua  below.  At  the  upper  outlet  of  the  fallopian 
tubes  is  the  fimbriated  extremity,  which  is  funnel-shaped  and  re- 
ceives the  ovum  direct  from  the  ovary. 

Ovaries — The  ovaries  are  bean-shaped  and  weigh  from  1  to  3 
ounces.  They  are  situated  in  the  sublumbar  region  of  the  ab- 
dominal cavity  about  4  to  5  inches  behind  each  kidney.  They 
hang  about  2  to  3  inches  to  each  side  of  center  of  vertebral  column. 
They  are  attached  above  in  the  sublumbar  region  by  the  anterior 
part  of  the  broad  ligament.  In  old  animals  the  ovaries  are  usually 
hard  and  fibrous.  However,  cysts  are  by  no  means  uncommon. 
The  ovarian  artery  supplies  nutrition  to  the  ovary. 

Warn  in  (J — The  rectum  must  be  empty,  otherwise  it  is  liable  to 
injury  from  point  of  knife  when  thrust  through  vaginal  roof.  In 
making  incision  be  sure  and  j^ress  the  cervix  downwards  and  for- 
wards with  spaying  speculum.  This  is  done  in  order  to  get  site 
of  incision  away  from  rectal  wall. 

Sterilization  of  Instruineiits  and  Cleansing  Operator's  Hands 
— The  instruments  should  be  boiled  for  15  to  20  minutes,  after 
which  place  them  in  Lysol  of  Cresol  Compound  U.  S.  P.,  in  the 
strength  of  one  tablespoonful  to  each  quart  of  water.  The  oper- 
ator's hands  should  be  thoroughly  washed  with  tincture  green 
soap,  using  scrub  brush,  after  which  wash  them  in  above  men- 
tioned antiseptic  solution. 

Operative  Teelniique — 1.  AVith  right  hand  lubricated  with 
carbolized  olive  oil,  carry  the  spaying  speculum  (Fi^?-s.  133  and 
134)  into  the  vagina,  and  insert  its  tip  into  the  cervix  (neck  of 
womb). 


Animal  Castration 


159 


2.     Withdraw  the  hand,  and  with  Colin 's  scalpel  reenter  the 
vagina. 


Fig.  133 — Williams'  Spaying  Speculum,  Showing  Hand  and  Knife  in  Position  for  Makin§ 

the  Vaginal  Incision. 


Fig.  134 — Paseley's  Spaying  Speculum,  Showing  Position  of  Hand  and  Knife  for  Making 

the  Vaginal  Incision. 

3.  With  left  hand  elevate  handle  of  speculum  and  make  suffi- 
cient pressure  downwards  and  forwards  to  stretch  the  roof  of  the 
vagina. 

4.  With  blade  guarded  it  is  pressed  against  the  roof  of  the 
vagina  directly  over  the  cervix. 


160 


Axi:\rAL  Castkatiox 


Fig.  135 — Mare  Confined  by  Hippo  Lasso.     A,  Right  Hand  Carrying  Colin's  Scalpel;   B, 
Left  Hand  Manipulating  Spaying  Speculum. 

5.  Unguard  and  thrust  the  l)ladc  through  the  roof  of  the 
vagina. 

6.  Eeguard  the  blade  and  withdraw  the  knife,  at  the  same  time 
spaying  speculum  should  also  be  withdrawn. 

7.  AVith  left  hand  enter  the  vagina  and  enlarge  the  o])ening 


Fig.  136 — Removing  Ovaries.    D,  Right  Arm;  E,  Spaying  Ecraseur;  F,  Left  Arm. 


Animal  Castration 


161 


by  stretching  with  fingers  until  the  whole  hand  will  enter  the  ab- 
dominal cavity. 

8.  Introduce  ecraseur  and  locate  and  sever  the  ovaries  from 
their  attachment.  These  are  severed  by  placing  loop  of  chain 
above  ovary,  and  with  the  operating  hand  the  ratchet  handle  is 


Fig.  137— Making  Vaginal  Incision.  A,  Right  Arm;  B,  Uterus;  C,  Anis;  D,  Vulva;  E, 
Spaying  Speculum;  F,  Vagina;  G,  Cervix;  H,  Urinary  Bladder;  I,  Broad  Ligament;  J. 
Rectum;  K,  Left  Hand;  L,  Left  Ovary;  M,  Point  of  Knife  Thrust  Through  Roof  of 
Vagina;  N,  Vaginal  Incision. 


162 


Axi:\iAL  Castration 


manipulated  back  and  forth  until  the  ovary  is  severed.  With- 
draw severed  ovary  from  abdominal  cavity  and  drop  it  in  the 
vagina.  The  opposite  ovary  is  then  severed  in  like  maimer,  after 
which  withdraw  both  ovaries  and  the  ecraseur.  The  operation  is 
now  completed.    By  reference  to  Figures  137  and  138  a  compre- 


Fig.  138 — Removing  the  Ovary  with  Ecraseur.  A,  Right  Arm;  B,  Uterus;  C,  Anis; 
D,  Vulva;  E,  Ecraseur;  F.  Vagina;  H,  Urinary  Bladder;  J,  Broad  Ligament;  M,  Vaginal 
incision;  N,  Right  Hand;  P,  Rectum;  S,  Ovary. 


Animal  Castration  163 

hensive  idea  in  regard  to  the  covered  steps  of  the  operation  may 
be  obtained. 

After  Care  and  Treatment — Keep  head  haltered  up  for  24 
hours  to  prevent  lying  down.  The  vaginal  wound  requires  no 
treatment.  The  mare  is  simply  placed  in  a  sanitary  box  stall, 
where  she  is  allowed,  to  remain  for  10  to  12  days,  after  which  she 
should  be  put  back  to  hard,  steady  work  until  the  habit  is  for- 
gotten. 

Sequelae — Colic  and  Peritonitis. 


164  Animal  Castbation 


CHAPTER  II. 

Cow,  Heifer  and  Calf  Spaying. 

cow  SPAYING. 

Objects  and  Indications — Cows  are  spayed  for  two  principal 
reasons:  1st,  to  correct  that  disagreeable  condition  known  as 
njrmphomania ;  2d,  to  increase  dnration  of  lactation  period.  Spay- 
ing is  the  only  rational  treatment  for  nymphomania,  and  cows 
thus  affected  should  always  be  submitted  to  the  operation  or  else 
sent  to  the  butcher.  While  the  oj^eration  has  not  been  generally 
and  extensively  practiced  as  a  means  of  controlling  lactation, 
nevertheless  it  is  a  well  recognized  fact  that  spaying  a  milch  cow 
during  the  height  of  lactation  will  not  only  cause  her  lactation 
period  to  last  for  from  2  to  3  years — uninterrupted  by  oestrum  and 
pregnancy — but  the  quantity  and  quality  of  the  milk  is  increased 
and  improved.  Milk  from  spayed  cows  contains  an  increased 
amount  of  cream,  caseine  and  sugar.  It  is  more  palatable  and  more 
wholesome  than  milk  from  unspayed  cows.  When  lactation  final- 
ly ceases  a  spayed  cow  readily  takes  on  fat  and  is  easily  put  in 
shape  for  the  butcher.  The  results  attained  wherever  the  opera- 
tion has  been  practiced  justifies  its  more  general  adoption. 

Age — For  treatment  of  nymphomania  they  are  spayed  regard- 
less of  age.  For  increasing  duration  of  lactation  period  it  is  best 
to  operate  after  the  udder  has  attained  its  full  development  and 
while  at  height  of  lactation.  This  would  mean  when  the  second  or 
third  calf  is  about  3  to  4  weeks  old.  Some  cows  are  in  their  prime 
with  second  calf,  while  others  are  not  until  the  third  calf.  The 
udder  never  develops  and  the  milk  flow  never  increases  after 
spaying,  hence  it  behooves  the  operator  not  to  make  a  mistake  in 
selecting  the  proper  time  to  operate.  Never  operate  during  the 
period  of  ''heat." 

Season — Since  the  vaginal  operation  is  the  method  recom- 
mended the  season  does  not  play  an  important  part.  They  may 
be  spayed  with  safety  at  any  season. 

Preparation — The  alimentary  tract,  especially  rectum,  should 


Animal  Castration 


165 


Fig,  140 — Cow  Fixed  to  Fence  by  Means  of  Ropes  for  Spaying  Operation. 


166  Animal  Casteation 

be  empty.  Hence  it  becomes  necessary  to  withhold  feed  for  30 
hours  previous  to  operating.  Immediately  before  operating  the 
rectum  should  be  emptied  of  its  contents  either  by  "back  raking" 
or  a  coi^ious  enema. 

Bcstraint — The  ojjeration  should  always  be  performed  with 
animal  in  the  standing  posture.  Stocks  (Fig.  139)  are  preferable 
when  they  are  available.  However,  when  stocks  are  not  at  hand 
the  animal  may  be  quickly  fixed  to  wall  or  fence  with  ropes  (Fig. 
140) .  The  head  is  first  fastened  to  post,  after  which  a  30-foot  rope 
is  looped  around  body  and  fastened  to  fence  or  wall  as  sho^m.  In 
this  position  the  animal  can  be  readily  spayed  without  lying  down, 
etc. 

Position — Standing. 

Instruments — 1.   Colin 's  Scalpel.     (Fig.  128.) 

2.  Williams'  Ratchet  Spaying  Ecraseur  (Fig.  129),  or  Dunn's 
Spaying  Ecraseur  (Fig.  130). 

3.  Williams'  Spaying  Speculum  (Fig.  133),  or  Paseley's 
Spaying  Speculum  (Fig.  134). 

4.  Injection  pump. 

Anatomy — The  anatomy  of  internal  and  external  generative 
organs  of  cow  similate  those  of  mare  to  some  extent.  However, 
in  order  that  the  comparative  may  be  studied,  we  will  take  up 
briefly  each  organ  separately. 

Vulva — The  vulva  possesses  two  thickened  labia  and  two  sharp 
commissures,  the  lower  of  which  is  pointed  and  contains  a  num- 
ber of  long,  stiff  hairs. 

The  clitoris  is  small  and  located  in  lower  commissure  of  the 
vulva. 


Pig.  141 — Internal  and  External  Genitals  of  the  Cow.     A,  Vulva;   B,  Vagina;  C,  Uterus; 
D,  D,  Horns;  E.  E,  Ovaries. 


Animal  Castration  167 

Vagina—The  vagina  is  larger  and  longer  than  that  of  the  mare, 
varying  in  length  from  8  to  14  inches.  Its  wall  is  thick.  The 
meatus  urinarius  opens  into  its  floor  about  5  inches  from  vulva. 

Uterus — The  uterus  is  short  and  lies  almost  entirely  in  the 
abdominal  cavity.  Its  cornua  are  very  long  and  gradually  taper 
toward  the  fallopian  tubes.  The  cervix  is  4I/2  to  5I/2  inches  long 
and  possesses  a  thick,  tough  wall.  Its  lumen  (cervical  canal)  is 
spiral  shaped  and  small.  The  internal  wall  of  uterus  and  horns 
are  studded  with  cotyledons.  These  are  oval  in  shape  and  about 
80  to  90  in  number. 

Fallopian  Tubes — The  tubes  are  longer  than  in  mare.  Their 
junction  with  cornua  are  not  so  abrupt  as  in  mare. 

Ovaries — The  ovaries  are  very  small  when  compared  to  size 
of  animal.  They  are  oval  in  shape  and  situated  usually  a  little 
above  the  middle  of  the  lateral  margin  of  the  pelvic  inlet.  How- 
e^^er,  it  is  by  no  means  uncommon  to  find  them  several  inches  from 
this  location. 

Warning — Unless  the  rectum  is  empty  and  the  cervix  forced 
downward  and  forward  with  spaying  speculum,  the  rectal  wall 
is  liable  to  be  punctured  with  point  of  knife. 

Sterilization  of  Instruments  and  Cleansing  Operator's  Hands 
— Every  instrument  used  in  connection  with  this  operation  should 
be  sterilized  by  boiling  15  to  20  minutes,  after  which  place  them 
in  L'ysol  or  Cresol  Compound,  U.  S.  P.,  in  the  streng-th  of  1  table- 
spoonful  to  each  quart  of  water.  The  operator's  hands  should  be 
thoroughly  washed  with  tincture  green  soap,  using  scrub  brush, 
after  which  wash  them  in  above  specified  antiseptic  solution.  The 
operator  should  not  be  required  to  assist  in  handling  the  animal. 
Better  leave  this  to  assistants. 

Operative  Technique — 1.  Douche  out  vagina  thoroughly  with 
antiseptic  solution,  using  injection  pump. 

2.  Wash  upper  one-third  of  tail,  rectum  and  vulva  with  anti- 
septic solution,  using  cotton  sponges. 

3.  Lubricate  right  hand  and  arm  with  carbolized  olive  oil. 

4.  With  handle  of  spaying  speculum  in  left  hand  the  right 
is  passed  into  vagina  and  the  tip  of  speculum  is  placed  in  cervix. 

5.  Withdraw  right  hand,  and  with  Colin 's  scalpel  reenter  the 


168 


Animal  Castration 


vagina  and  place  knife — with  bladed  guarded — against  roof  of 
vagina  immediately  over  the  cervix.     (See  Fig.  142.) 

6.  With  left  hand  raise  handle  of  spaying  speculum  and  make 
downward  and  forward  pressure  sufficient  to  stretch  walls  of 
vagina  taut. 

7.  Unguard  blade  of  knife  and  thrust  it  through  the  vaginal 


i 


-',j>» 


Fig.  142— Making  Incision  Through  Vaginal  Roof.  A,  Right  Arm;  B,  Uterus;  C, 
Rectum;  D,  Vulva;  E,  Spaying  Speculum;  F,  Vagina;  G,  Cervix;  H,  Urinary  Bladder; 
I,  Broad  Ligament;  J,  Rectum;  K,  Left  Hand;  L,  Ovary;  M,  Point  of  Knife;  N,  Perfora- 
tion in  Roof  of  Vagina. 


Animal  Castration 


169 


roof,  including  peritoneum,  after  which  re-guard  blade  and  drop 
knife  on  floor  of  vagina. 

8.  With  index  and  second  finger  enlarge  the  perforation  by 
stretching  and  tearing  until  the  whole  hand  can  be  thrust  into  the 
abdominal  cavity.    (See  Fig.  143.) 

9.  With  left  hand  pass  ecraseur  into  vagina,  where  its  chain  is 
grasped  with  right  hand  and  carried  into  abdominal  cavity.    One 


i^^^^^ 


Fig.  143 — Severing  Ovary  with  Ecraseur.  A,  Riglit  Arm;  B,  Uterus;  E,  Ecraseur;  F, 
Vagina;  H,  Urinary  Bladder;  J,  Broad  Ligament;  K,  Left  Hand;  M,  Vaginal  Perforation; 
N,  Right  Hand;  P,  Rectum;  S,  Ovary. 


170  Axi:mal  Castration 

of  the  ovaries  is  now  located,  the  chain  hx)])  ph\ced  above  it,  and 
by  ratchet  movement  of  handk'  the  chain  loop  is  closed  and  the 
ovaries'  attachment  severed.  The  opposite  one  is  removed  in  like 
manner,  and  both  are  brought  ont  when  hand  and  ecraseur  are 
»vithdrawn. 

After  Care  and  Treat  incut — Sanitary  qnarters  and  limited  diet 
for  several  days  constitute  the  necessary  after  care  and  treatment, 

HEIFER  SPAYING. 

Objects  and  Indications — Heifers  are  spayed  for  the  sole  pur- 
pose of  growing  them  for  desirable  beef  animals.  Spaying  ap- 
pears to  modify  or  alter  the  whole  organism,  especially  as  regards 
external  symmetry  and  muscular  development.  There  is  a  de- 
cided tendency  to  quicker  growth,  and  spayed  heifers  are  prone  to 
take  on  fat  rapidly  at  most  any  age.  Such  animals  can  be  grown 
to  maturity  without  the  inconveniences  of  "heat"  and  pregnancy, 
and  command  the  same  price  on  the  market  as  steers.  They  may 
be  allowed  to  comingle  with  other  animals  in  the  herd — including 
bulls — with  the  assurance  that  pregnancy  will  not  occur.  The 
operation  has  been  practiced  extensively  for  years  on  the  Western 
ranches  with  gratifying  results.  It  should  be  encouraged  and 
more  widely  practiced  everywhere  beef  cattle  are  grown.  As  an 
economic  operation  its  value  is  hard  to  overestimate.  It  is  in- 
deed a  simple  and  easy  operation  to  perform,  and  is  accompanied 
by  a  low  mortality  rate.  Where  once  introduced  its  many  merits 
will  usually  commend  its  more  general  practice. 

Age — The  most  preferable  age  is  8  to  12  months,  care  being 
taken  to  spay  before  the  heifer  becomes  pregnant. 

Season — Spring  and  fall.  Spaying  should  be  done  in  the  spring 
before  flies  appear,  and  in  the  fall  after  they  disappear.  Not  ad- 
visable to  operate  during  fly  time. 

Preparation — Withhold  feed  for  24  hours  previous  to  operat- 
ing in  order  to  have  alimentary  tract  comparatively  empt3^  Water 
in  limited  amount  may  be  allowed. 

Posit  ion — Stan  d  ing . 

Restraint — Spaying  stocks  (Fig.  139)  are  ideal  means  of  re- 
straint.    When  stocks  are  not  available  the  quickest  and  at  the 


Animal  Castration 


171 


same  time  one  of  the  best  methods  of  restraint  is  to  tie  head  to  gate 
post  and  have  an  assistant  draw  tail  between  slats  of  gate  above 
the  animal.  (See  Fig.  144).  The  object  in  using  crack  above  the 
animal  is  to  prevent  lying  down.  A  good  strong  assistant  by  trac- 
tion on  tail  can  hold  animal  against  gate  in  such  manner  as  to  limit 
movement  from  side  to  side  and  up  and  down.  In  this  position  the 
flank  region  is  readily  available  for  operation. 


Fig.  144 — Restraint  of  Heifer  for  Flank  Operation. 

Instruments — 1.    Hairclippers.    (Fig.  145.) 

2.  Curved  head  spaying  emasculator.  (Fig.  146.)  This  is  by 
far  the  most  satisfactory  instrument  yet  devised  for  flank  spaying. 
It  is  easy  to  handle,  takes  up  very  little  space  in  the  incision  and 
abdominal  cavity,  besides  controls  hemorrhage  perfectly.  Two 
other  spaying  emasculators  (Figs.  147  and  148)  are  fairly  satis- 
factory.   Especially  is  Figure  147  a  good  one. 

3.  "Farmer"  Miles'  hook  castrating  knife  (Fi2'.  ^5),  or  Jami- 
son's spaying  knife  (Fig.  149).  The  author  prefers  the  Miles' 
knife. 

4.  Suturing  fork.  (Fig.  150.)  The  object  of  this  fork  is  to 
hold  edges  of  skin  wound  while  the  needle  is  being  thrust  through. 


172 


Animal  Casteation 


It  is  also  provided  with  a  knife  for  purpose  of  cutting  suture 
material. 

5.  Suturing  needle.  There  are  two  needles  suitable  for  pur- 
pose of  closing  the  wound:  (a)  Miles'  palm  needle  (Fig.  151), 
and  Mooy's  ring  handle  needle  (Fig.  152).  The  author  prefers 
the  Miles'  needle.  However,  in  the  West  many  spayers  use  the 
other  style  needle. 

6.  Curved  scissors.     (Fig.  35.) 

7.  Suture  material.  This  may  be  either  linen  or  silk.  The 
author  prefers  No.  15  braided  silk. 


Fig.  145 — Hair  Clipper. 


Fig.  146 — Curved  Head  Spaying  Emasculator. 


Animal  Castration 


173 


Fig.  147 — Spaying  Emasculator. 


Fig.  148 — Spaying  Emasculator. 


Fig.  149 — Jamison's  Spaying  Knife. 


Fig.  150— Suturing  Fork. 


174 


AXIMAL  CasTRATIOX 


Fig.  152 — Mooy's  Needle. 


Anatonnj — The  aiiatoiny  of  internal  and  external  genital  organs 
are  same  as  coav.  (See  page  166.)  The  flank  region  possesses  a 
well  defined  triangle,  throngh  the  center  of  which  the  abdominal 
incision  is  made.  The  tissnes  penetrated  by  this  incision  are  as 
follows:  Skin,  subcutaneons  connective  tissue,  fascia,  external 
and  internal  oblique  abdominal  muscles  and  peritoneum. 

SterUization  of  Ivstninioits  and  Cleausinfj  Hands  of  Operator 
—  Same  as  for  cow  spaying.  (See  page  167.)  If  the  operator  is 
right-handed,  it  is  best  to  invade  the  left  flank.  If  left-handed, 
the  right  flank  should  be  invaded. 

Operative  Technique — 1.     Clip  hair  from  site  of  operation. 

2.  Wash  parts  with  soap  and  warm  water,  using  scrub  brush. 
Special  care  should  be  taken  to  remove  all  loose  hair  from  the  field, 
and  sponge  off  with  antiseptic  solution.  As  a  further  precaution 
against  septic  infection  it  is  well  to  ])aint  skin  with  tincture  iodine. 
Iodine. 

3.  With  knife  in  right  hand,  beginning  2  inches  below  trans- 
verse process  of  lumbar  vertebrae,  a  slightly  diagonal  incision 
Sl^  inches  long  should  be  made  through  the  skin  only.  The  exact 
site  of  this  incision  is  through  middle  of  triangle  between  the  ex- 
ternal angle  of  the  illium  and  posterior  border  of  the  last  rib. 
(See  L,  Figs.  153  and  F,  154.) 


Animal  Casteation 


175 


Fig.  153 — Making  Sliin  Incision.     L,  Incision;   M,  Knife;  N,  Right  Hand. 


Fig.  154 — Skin  Incision.     F,  External  Oblir:ue  Abdominal  Muscle. 


176 


Animal  Castration 


4.  In  the  center  of  this  skin  incision  the  knife  point  should 
be  thrust  through  the  abdominal  wall,  making  a  perforation  large 
enough  to  admit  one  finger  only.  The  knife  is  now  put  aside,  as 
you  have  no  further  use  for  it. 

5.  One  finger  of  the  operating  hand  is  thrust  through  the  ab- 
dominal wall  perforation,  and  by  stretching  the  wound  two  fingers 
are  admitted — index  fingers  of  each  hand.  With  these  two  fingers 
tear  the  muscular  fibers  apart  sufficiently  to  admit  the  whole  hand. 

6.  With  left  hand  inside  the  abdominal  cavity  the  body  of  the 
uterus  is  located,  after  which  follow  its  right  comua  upwards 
and  backwards  until  right  ovary  is  encountered. 

7.  With  right  hand  the  emasculator  is  now  passed  along  the 


Fig.   155 — Severing  tlie  Ovaries,     i),  Lett  Arm;    F^   Incision;    Q,  Emasculator;    R,  Right 

Hand. 


left  arm  through  the  incision,  and  its  head  placed  above  the  ovary, 
and  by  bringing  the  handles  together  the  ovary  is  severed  from  its 
attachment.     (See  Fig.  155.) 

8.     The  left  ovary  is  now  located  by  following  the  right  cornua 


Animal  Casteation 


177 


back  to  the  body  of  uterus  where  the  left  cornua  is  eucountered. 
By  f ollowiug  it  upwards  and  backwards  the  left  ovary  is  encoun- 
tered and  severed  in  like  manner. 

9.  A¥ithdraw  the  hand — containing  both  ovaries — with  instru- 
ment. When  this  is  done  the  fibers  of  the  internal  and  external 
oblique  abdominal  muscles  come  together  and  anatomically  close 
the  wound  with  the  exception  of  the  skin  incision. 

10.  With  3  interrupted  sutures  the  skin  incision  is  closed  and 
the  operation  is  completed.     (See  Fig.  156.) 


Fig.  156 — The  Skin  Incision  Closed  by  Three  Interrupted  Sutures.  N,  Sutures;  O,  Incision, 

Incision  Illustrated  and  Explained — The  exact  method  of  in- 
vading the  abdominal  cavity  through  the  flank  incision  is  of  special 
importance  if  successful  spaying  is  to  be  done.  Undoubtedly  the 
incision  is  the  most  important  step  of  the  whole  operation.  It  is 
made  and  closed  as  follows :  (See  Figs.  157,  158  and  159.  Study 
these  illustrations  carefully.)  With  knife  in  right  hand  the  skin 
incision  G,  G,  (Fig.  157)  is  made.    Thrust  point  of  knife  through 


178 


Animal  Castration 


Fig.  157 — E,  Muscular  Fibers  of  Internal  obliiiue  and  Kxternal  Oblique  Slightly  Divided; 
F,  F,  External  Oblique  Abdominal  Muscle;   G,  G,  Lips  of  Skin  Incision. 


remaining  portion  of  the  abdominal  wall  (external  oblique  and  in- 
ternal oblique  abdominal  muscles  and  peritoneum) .  With  fingers 
this  perforation  (A,  Fig.  158)  is  enlarged  by  tearing  the  fibers  of 
the  external  oblique  apart  B,  B,  and  at  the  same  time  those  of  the 
internal  oblique  C,  C  are  separated  in  the  opposite  direction  until 
the  whole  hand  is  admitted.  When  the  hand  is  withdrawn  the 
muscular  fibers  anatomically  come  together  (see  Fig.  157)  and 
practically  close  the  wound  with  exception  of  the  skin  incision. 
With  three  interrupted  sutures  the  skin  incision  is  closed  and  the 
operation  completed  (see  Fig.  159). 

This  method  of  making  flank  incision  far  excels  in  every  re- 
spect the  one  which  requires  cutting  through  the  abdominal  mus- 
cles. When  these  muscle  fibers  are  cut  you  have  a  large  gaping 
wound  which  requires  weeks  and  oftentimes  months  for  healing. 


Animal  Castration 


179 


Fig.  158. 

With  fibers  divided  by  tearing,  the  skin  alone  is  sutured  and  the 
whole  wound  heals  rapidly. 

After  Care  and  Treatment — Place  animals  on  pasture  or  in 
sanitary  quarters.  The  wounds  should  be  observed  from  day  to 
day  for  stitch  abscesses,  etc.  Should  abscesses  develop  the  suture 
should  be  removed  and  the  pus  allowed  to  escape.  The  sutures 
should  be  removed,  when  possible,  about  the  eighth  day.  Often- 
times the  sutures  are  not  removed,  in  which  event  they  finally 
slough  out. 

CALF  SPAYING. 

Objects  and  Indications — Calves  are  spayed  for  the  same  pur- 
poses that  heifers  are  spayed,  viz.:  the  operation  hastens  their 
growth  and  development,  besides  improves  the  texture  and  nutri- 
tive properties  of  the  meat.  Spayed  calves  may  be  raised  to  full 
maturity  without  the  bother  of  either  ''heat"  or  pregnancy.    An- 


180 


Animal  Castration 


Fig.   159 — Skin  Incision   Closed   by   Tlncf    Interrupted   Sutures.   H,   H,   Lips  of  Skin  In- 
cisions;  I,  J,  K,  Sutures. 


other  reason  for  calf  spaying  is  that  the  mortality  rate  is  less  in 
young  than  in  older  animals.  There  are  two  approved  methods  of 
spaying  calves,  viz. :  belly  method  and  flank  method. 

Age — The  favorite  age  for  calf  spaving  is  two  to  four  months 
old. 

Season — Spring  and  fall. 

Preparation — Same  as  heifer  spaying. 

Position — Lateral,  recumbent  or  hanging,  depending  upon 
whether  the  belly  or  flank  is  to  be  invaded. 

Restraint — For  flank  operation  the  calf  is  simply  stretched 
full  length  on  the  ground  by  rope  looped  above  hind  and  fore 
ankles.  (See  Fig.  160.)  For  belly  operation  the  animal  is  sus- 
pended by  cord  or  small  size  rope  looped  over  both  hocks  and 


Animal  Castration 


181 


attached  to  a  beam  or  hook  above.    The  site  of  incision  should  be 
about  opposite  breast  of  the  operator. 

Instruments— Bsime  as  heifer  spaying.     (See  pages  171-173.) 

Sterilisation  of  Instruments  and  Cleansing  Operator's  Hands 
— Same  as  for  heifer  spaying.    (See  page  174.) 


Fig.  160— Calf  Cast  and  Tied  for  Spaying  Operation.     (Flank  Method.) 

Operative  Teclinique — (Flank  Method.)     The  hair  is  clipped 
from  over  site  of  incision.     Parts  washed  with  soap  and  warm 


Fig.  161 — Removing  Ovary  from  Calf   (flank  method).     K,  Ovary;    L,  Emasculator;   M, 

Hand. 


182 


Animal  Castration 


water,  after  which  sponge  off  with  antiseptic  solution.  As  a  fur- 
ther precaution  against  septic  infection  it  is  well  to  paint  the  skin 
with  tincture  iodine.  The  incision  is  made  similar  to  that  em- 
ployed in  heifer  sj^aying  (pages  177-179)  with  the  exception  that  in 
the  calf  a  much  smaller  one  is  used  since  only  the  index  and  sec- 
ond finger  are  introduced  into  the  abdominal  cavity,  whereas  in 
heifer  spaying  the  whole  hand  is  inserted.  With  the  two  fingers 
inside  the  abdominal  cavity  a  search  is  made  for  the  uppermost 


Fig.  162— Jncision   (Belly  Method). 


fallopian  tube  or  ovary.  One  or  the  other  of  these  is  usually 
found  with  little  difficulty  by  wiping  downwards  and  backwards 
towards  pubic  brim.  When  located  the  ovary  is  brought  up  into 
the  incision  and  its  attachments  severed  with  the  emasculator. 


Animal  Castration 


183 


The  opposite  ovary  is  located  and  removed  in  like  manner.     (See 
Fig.  161.)    The  skin  incision  is  closed  by  two  interrupted  sutures. 

Ope^-ative  Technique  (Belly  Method) — With  calf  suspended 
in  hanging  position  the  hair  is  clipped  from  site  of  incision  and 
the  parts  thoroughly  washed  and  disinfected  the  same  as  for  spay- 
ing by  the  flank  method.  With  knife  in  right  hand  begin  the 
incision  two  inches  below  the  brim  of  the  pubis  in  the  median  line 
and  extend  it  downwards  for  three  inches,  penetrating  all  the 
coats  of  the  abdominal  wall.  (See  Fig.  162.)  With  index  and 
second  finger  inside  the  abdomen  the  ovaries  are  readily  located 
and  brought  into  the  incision  and  their  attachments  severed  with 
the  emasculator.  (See  Fig.  163.)  The  incision  is  now  closed  by 
three  or  four  "through  and  through"  sutures.     (See  Fig.  164.) 

After  Care  and  Treatment— Bsmae  as  heifers.    (See  page  179.) 


Fig.  163 — Removing  Ovary  (Belly  Method).     C,  Incision;  D,  Ovary;  E,  Emasculator. 


184 


Animal  Castration 


Fig.   164 — Incision  Closed  by  Interrupted  Sutures. 

Sequelae  of  Cattle  Spaying — Hemorrhage,  septic  peritonitis, 
abscess,  general  sepsis,  hernia  and  bloating  are  the  most  usual 
sequelae. 


Animal  Castration  185 

CHAPTER  III. 

SPAYING  SOWS. 

Objects  and  Indications — The  one  and  only  beneficial  resnlt 
of  this  operation  is  to  facilitate  growth,  fattening,  marketing  and 
slaughter  without  the  handicap  of  early  pregnancy.  The  economic 
importance  of  sow  spaying  is  well  recognized  by  many  swine 
owners.  Formerly  the  operation  was  more  generally  practiced 
than  it  is  at  the  present  day.  This  may  be  accounted  for  by  the 
fact  that  what  would  have  formerly  been  termed  revolutionary 
methods  are  now  in  vogue  in  the  great  swine-raising  sections  of 
the  Middle  West  and  Central  States  in  raising  and  marketing 
hogs.  This  practice  enables  swine  owners  to  grow,  fatten  and 
market  hogs  as  early  as  six  to  ten  months  of  age,  and  is  becom- 
ing more  universal  each  and  every  year.  Of  course  under  such 
circumstances  spaying  would  not  be  an  essential  operation.  How- 
ever, in  the  South  and  Southwest  the  older  methods  of  swine- 
raising  still  prevail  to  a  limited  degree,  hence  it  is  in  this  section 
that  the  operation  of  spaying  is  still  practiced  to  a  limited  extent. 

Age — The  operation  is  best  performed  at  four  months.  How- 
ever, it  is  permissible  to  operate  any  time  from  sixty  days  to  ma- 
turity, or  even  old  age. 

Season — Sows  should  not  be  spayed  during  "fly  time"  or  in 
extremely  cold  weather.  Best  to  operate  in  the  fall,  early  winter 
and  spring. 

Preparation — One  of  the  most  important  essentials  to  success 
in  spaying  sows  is  to  have  the  alimentary  tract  absolutely  empty 
before  undertaking  to  operate.  This  can  best  be  done  by  with- 
holding the  feed  for  from  twenty-four  to  thirty  hours  previously. 
During  this  time  there  is  no  special  objection  to  allowing  the  ani- 
mal free  access  to  water.  The  danger  of  septic  infection  can  be 
greatly  minimized  by  providing  clean  quarters  before  and  after 
operation.  Another  essential  is  to  not  allow  the  boar  access  to 
the  sows  previous  to  spaying.    It  is  not  best  to  operate  during  the 


186 


Animal  Castration 


period  of  ''heat."    Pregnancy  is  a  counter-indication  to  success- 
ful spaying. 

Bestraint — Proper  restraint  technique  is  as  much  an  essential 
in  spaying  operation  of  sows  as  it  is  in  most  any  operation  in 
animal  surgery.  This  operation  calls  for  the  simple  and  easily 
applied  rather  than  the  complicated  and  intrinsic  methods  often- 
times employed  in  other  operations.  The  method  of  restraint  used 
must  of  course  depend  upon  whether  the  flank  or  the  belly  opera- 


A 

' 

■M^^ 

^ 

Fig.  165— Restraint  for  Spaying   (Belly  Method.) 

tion  is  to  be  performed.  If  the  abdominal  cavity  is  to  be  invaded 
from  below  (belly)  the  most  simple  and  satisfactory  method  of 
restraint  would  consist  in  looping  a  strong  cord  (window  sash 
cord)  or  small  size  rope  above  the  hocks,  by  which  the  animal  can 
be  readilv  suspended  to  a  post  or  wall  in  the  hanging  posture 
(Fig.  165.) 

Tf  the  flank  incision  is  to  be  resorted  to  then  it  is  necessary 


Animal  Castration 


187 


for  the  animal  to  be  confined  in  the  recumbent  posture  at  an  angle 
of  about  thirty  degrees  on  either  right  or  left  side,  depending 
upon  which  flank  is  to  be  invaded.  One  of  the  best  and  most  satis- 
factory methods  the  author  has  ever  employed  is  as  follows :  Pro- 
cure a  piece  of  three-eighths  inch  soft  rope  about  six  feet  long. 
Tie  the  free  ends  together,  forming  a  loop  as  shown  in  Fig.  166. 


166— Restraint    for    Spaying    (Flank    Method.)      First    Step.      A,    Board    with    End 
Elevated;    B,  Rope   Suspending  the  Board;    C,  Rope  Loop; 
D,  Right  Hand;  E,  Left  Hand. 

Next  secure  a  2  x  14  inch  plank  about  12  feet  long;  place  one  end 
on  the  flooi"  or  ground  as  the  case  ma}^  be,  either  spike  the  other 
end  fast  to  the  wall  or  suspend  it  by  means  of  a  rope  from  above. 
Now  make  your  rope  loop  fast  to  the  upper  end  of  the  plank  with 
a  screw  eye  or  a  spike  (A),  or  it  may  be  fastened  by  boring  a  hole 
through  the  plank  large  enough  to  allow  the  rope  to  be  drawn  up 
through  and  held  secure  by  a  large  knot  in  its  ends.    This  should 


188 


Animal  Castration 


be  so  arranged  that  when  the  hog  is  fastened  to  the  plank  it  is 
to  be  about  waist  high  to  the  operator  as  shown  in  the  following 
illustrations.  The  plank  should  assume  a  position  of  about  thirty 
degrees.  The  operator  standing  facing  the  plank  with  his  right 
hand  towards  the  lower  end  passes  right  hand  (D)  through  the 
loop  (C)  and  instructs  assistant  to  grasp  right  legs  of  the  hog 
and  bring  the  hog  to  him  placing  it  on  the  board.  As  the  assistant 
approaches  with  the  hog  pass  your  left  hand  under  the  right  hand 
and  rope,  grasping  left  hind  leg  (E),  while  your  right  hand  grasps 
the  right  hind  leg  (Fig.  167).  Now  guide  the  left  leg  to  your 
right  hand,  which  grasps  it.  The  left  hand  now  contains  both 
hind  feet,  while  the  right  hand  grasps  the  loop  from  over  left 
wrist  and  carries  it  back,  dropping  it  above  ankles.  As  you  drop 
the  rope  back  of  the  ankle  you  are  to  say  ''pull,"  meaning  that 
your  assistant  is  to  pull  the  hog  downward  on  the  plank,  making 


Fig.   167 — Restraint  for   Spaying  Operation    (Flank   Metliod.)    Second   Step.     F,  Board; 
G,  Rope;  H,  Rope  Loop;  I,  Left  Hand;  J,  Riglit  Hand. 


Animal  Castration 


189 


Fig.   168— Restraint  for  Spaying  Operation    (Flank  Method.)      Tliird   Step.     K,   Board; 
L,  Rope;   M,  Rope  Loop;   N,  Hind  Legs  Fixed;   O,  Flank  Incision. 

the  rope  taut  as  shown  in  Fig.  168.    With  a  little  practice  a  sow 
can  be  secured  by  this  method  in  less  than  five  seconds. 

Instruments — 1.  Curved  scissors  (Fig.  35)  for  clipping  hair 
from  site  of  incision. 

2.  Miles'  hook  knife  (Fig.  25). 

3.  Swine  and  sheep  emasculator  (Fig.  80). 

4.  Hagedorn's  needle  (half  circle)  No.  3  (Fig.  84). 

5.  Eichter's  needle  holder  (Fig.  34). 

6.  Braided  silk  No.  12  or  linen  for  sutures. 

Anatomy — It  is  well  to  remember  that  the  fallopian  tubes  and 
horns  of  uterus  in  sows  are  extremely  long  in  comparison  to 
size  of  animal  and  that  their  course  is  decidedly  tortuous  in  the 
pelvis  and  abdominal  cavities.  The  importance  of  the  above  can 
be  more  thoroughh^  comprehended  and  appreciated  if  you  will 
carefully  observe  these  parts  and  their  relation,  which  is  plainly 


190 


Animal  Castration 


Fig.    169 — Internal    Genital    Organs    of    Sow.      A,    Rectum;     B,    Vagina;     C,    Bladder; 

D,   Uterus;    B,   Left  Fallopian   Tube   or   "Horn";    F,    Right   Fallopian 

Tube  or  "Horn";   G,  Ovary;   H,  Intestines;    I,  Kidney. 

illustrated,  in  a  diagramatic  way,  in  Fig.  169.  The  body  of  the 
uterus  is  unusually  short  when  the  length  of  its  tubes  are  taken  into 
consideration.  The  cervix  (neck  of  womb)  does  not  project  into 
the  vagina  in  such  manner  as  is  observed  in  most  other  domestic 
and  wild  animals.  On  the  other  hand,  the  vagina  and  uterus  of 
the  sow  are  continued  into  each  other  without  any  circumscribed 
limit  intervening  between  them.  The  "homs"  float  loosely  in  the 
abdominal  cavity  and  are  found  closely  associated  with  the  con- 
volutions of  the  intestines.  The  broad  ligaments  are  mesenteric 
in  conformation  and  character  and  are  extremelv  thin  and  lax. 


i^^^ 


Fig. 


170 — External  and  Internal  Generative  Organs  of  the  Sow.     A,   Ovaries;    B,   Fal- 
lopian  Tubes;    C,   Uterus;    D,   Vagina;    E,  Vulva. 


Animal  Castration  191 

The  ovaries  are  decidedly  lobulated  and  closely  resemble  grape 
cluster,  being  suspended  to  tbe  right  and  left  of  the  vertebral 
column  near  the  median  line  of  the  body.  Fig.  170  illustrates  the 
external  as  well  as  internal  generative  organs  of  the  sow. 

The  abdominal  wall  in  the  flank  region  is  quite  thick  and  con- 
tains much  fat.  This  fat  is  encountered  between  the  skin  and  the 
external  oblique  abdominal  muscle.  More  fat  is  encountered  in 
mature  sows  than  in  younger  hogs.  The  skin  is  dense  and  tough 
in  consistency,  while  the  external  and  internal  oblique  muscles  and 
peritoneum  are  comparative^  thin  and  delicate  in  conformation. 
The  above  description  applies  equally  as  well  to  the  belly  wall  at 
site  of  spaying  operation  except  that  the  wall  in  the  latter  region 
is  somewhat  thinner. 

Methods  of  Operating — There  are  two  standard  methods,  viz.  : 
flank,  and  median  line  or  "belly."  Each  have  their  advantages 
and  disadvantages ;  however,  taking  everything  into  consideration 
the  author  greatly  prefers  the  flank  method. 

Operative  Technique  (Flank  Method) — The  animal  should  be 
properly  secured  as  illustrated  in  Figs.  166,  167  and  168,  and 
placed  on  the  right  side.  Remove  hair  from  flank  by  clipping 
with  scissors.  Wash  hands  of  operator  and  left  flank  of  animal 
with  Lysol  or  Cresol  Compound  U.  S.  P.  in  the  strength  of  one 
tablespoonful  to  each  quart  of  water.  With  hook  knife  make 
oblique  incision  one  inch  to  an  inch  and  a  half  long,  beginning 
high  in  flank,  one  to  two  inches  j)Osterior  (behind)  the  last  rib. 
This  incision  should  run  downward  and  backward  at  an  angle  of 
45  degrees  (see  O,  Fig.  168).  The  incision  should  penetrate  skin, 
subcutaneous  connective  tissue,  fat  and  external  and  interna] 
oblique  abdominal  muscles.  By  this  we  mean  all  tissues  down  to 
the  peritoneum  (lining  of  the  abdominal  cavity).  The  peritoneum 
is  now  carefully  punctured  with  the  point  of  knife,  after  which 
stretch  or  enlarge  the  incision  sufficiently  to  admit  index  finger 
of  the  left  hand.  With  this  finger  inside  of  abdomen  the  left  (up- 
per) ovary  is  located  b}^  passing  the  finger  backward  near  fungus 
of  bladder  and  upward  toward  vertebral  column  (backbone).  The 
ovary  can  be  readily  distinguished  from  the  other  inter-abdominal 
viscera  by  its  peculiar  feel,  as  it  consists  of  hard  lobules  arranged 
in  cluster  form  similating  small  grapes.    The  left  ovary  and  its 


192 


Animal  Castration 


aceor.ipaii3'iiig  fallopian  tubes  are  di-awii  tliruugli  the  incisiun.  In 
yonng  sows  the  left  tube  is  now  withdrawn  from  abdominal  cavity 
and  follow^ed  back  to  the  biflication  where  the  right  tube  is  encoun- 
tered. The  right  tube  is  withdrawn  from  abdominal  cavity  and 
followed  until  right  ovary  is  located,  after  which  draw  the  ovary 
out  of  abdomen  through  incision  and  place  both  ovaries  (P)  in 
emasculatcu'  and  sever  their  attachments  by  closing  handles  of  in- 
strument. The  tubes  (Q)  are  now  washed  and  ]'eplaced  in  the 
abdominal  cavity  (see  Fig.  171),  after  which  the  incision  is 
closed  by  two  interrupted  sutures.  These  sutures  should  1)e  made 
with  a  No.  3  half  circle  Hagedorn  needle  and  No.  12  braided  silk. 
They  should  extend  through  all  layers  of  the  abdominal  wall,  in- 
cluding skin  and  peritoneum,  or  in  other  words,  should  ])e  what  is 
known  as  the  "through  and  through"  sutures.  (See  Fig.  172.) 
Sponge  off  wound  with  antiseptic  solution  and  release  the  animal. 


Fig.  171 — P,  Ovaries;    Q,  Fallopian  Tubes   fHorns);    R,  Emasculator. 

In  sows  which  have  given  birth  to  one  or  more  litters  of  pigs 
the  fallopian  tubes  are  oftentimes  so  large  that  the  left  one  must 
be  replaced  in  the  abdomen  before  the  right  one  can  be  withdrawn. 
Tn  such  vent,  of  course,  only  one  ovary  can  be  removed  at  a  time. 
However,  both  ovaries  can  always  be  removed  through  the  same 
flank  incision. 


Animal  Castration 


193 


Fig.   172— Abdominal   Incision,   Closed   with   Two  Interrupted   Sutures.      S,   T,    Sutures. 


Fig.  173 — Belly  Incision. 


194 


Animal  Castration 


Fig.  174 — F,  Ovaries;  G,  Fallopian  Tubes  or  "Horns";  H,  Emasculator. 

Operative  Technique  (Median  Line  or  ''Belly"  Method)— 
Sterilize  instruments  and  wash  hands  same  as  for  flank  operation. 
With  the  animal  properly  secured  in  the  hanging  posture  (Fig. 
173)  the  hair  is  removed  from  site  of  incision  and  parts  cleansed 
same  as  for  flank  method.  With  hook  knife  begin  incision  two  to 
three  inches  below  brim  of  pubis  and  one-half  inch  to  either  right 
or  left  of  the  median  line.  This  incision  should  be  extended  down- 
wards about  one  and  one-half  to  two  inches,  and  should  include 
all  la^'Crs  of  the  abdominal  wall,  down  to  the  peritoneum. 

The  peritoneum  is  now  punctured  with  the  point  of  the  hook 
knife,  after  which  enlarge  incision  to  admit  index  finger  of  left 


Animal  Castration 


195 


hand.  With  this  finger  the  ovaries  and  tubes  are  readily  located 
near  the  median  line  of  the  body.  They  are  drawn  through  the 
incision  (see  Fig.  174)  and  removed  with  emasculator  same  as 
by  flank  method. 

The  tubes  are  now  sponged  off  with  antiseptic  solution,  after 
which  they  are  replaced  in  the  abdominal  cavity  and  the  wound 
closed  by  two  or  three  interrupted  "through  and  through"  sutures 
(see  J,  Fig.  175),  using  the  same  needle  and  the  same  size  silk  as 
flank  method.    The  animal  is  now  released. 


Fig.  175— Wound  Closed  (Belly  Method), 


196 


Animal  Castration 


^F^^l 

■■ 

^r  ^^^^1 

^1 

H 

^^^^1-*'      '  1^^^^^^^^^^^^ 

m  >  Ji 

^^^^H 

_  %f^^^^^^^^^^^^^ 

^M 

Fig.    176 — Cystic    Ovaries    Weighing   4    Pounds    Removed    from    a    Sow    of   170    Pounds 
Weight.     A,  Uterus;   B-B,  Horns;    C-C,  Ovaries. 


Animal  Castration 


197 


CHAPTER  IV. 


EWE   SPAYING. 


Objects  and  Indications — Sheep  spaying  is  rarely  ever  prac- 
ticed in  this  country  on  account  of  the  ewe  being  more  valuable 
as  a  breeding  animal  than  she  is  for  mutton  purposes.  Spayed 
ewes  will  mature  earlier,  grow  larger  and  take  on  fat  faster  and 
more  of  it  than  will  entire  ewes.  On  this  account  they  are  some- 
times spayed  for  fat  stock  show  and  exhibition  purposes. 

Age — 2V2  to  3  months  is  the  desirable  age. 

Season — Late  winter  and  early  spring. 

Preparation — Empty  alimentaiy  tract  by  withholding  feed  for 
24  to  30  hours  previous  to  operating. 

Position — Hanging. 

Restraint — The  ewe  is  exceedingly  docile  and  submits  kindly  to 
operation.  With  a  small  rope  or  large  cord  looped  above  each  hock 
the  animal  is  suspended  from  a  hook  or  beam  above.  The  field 
of  operation  should  be  on  a  level  with  breast  of  operator. 

Instruments — 1.  Curved  scissors  (Fig.  35)  for  clipping  wool 
from  site  of  incision.  2.  Miles'  hook  knife  (Fig.  25).  3.  Swine 
and  sheep  emasculator  (Fig.  80).  4.  Hagedorn's  needle  %  cir- 
cle ,  No.  3  (Fig.  84).  5.  Richter's  needle  holder  (Fig.  34).  6. 
Braided  silk  No.  12  for  suturing. 


Fig.   177 — External  and   Internal   Genital  Organs  of  the  Ewe.     G,  Vulva;    H,   Vagina; 
I,   Uterus;    J-J,   Horns;    K-K,   Ovaries;    L-L,   Broad   Ligament. 


198 


Animal  Castration 


Anatomu — The  conformation  and  anatomical  relation  of  the 
internal  generative  organs  of  the  ewe  are  almost  a  facsimile  du- 
plicate of  those  of  the  cow  except  on  a  much  smaller  scale.  The 
abdominal  wall  at  site  of  incision  is  very  thin  and  exceedingly 
delicate. 


Fig.  178— Abdominal  Incision. 


Fig.   179 — Removing  Ovary. 
M,  Incision;    N,   Ovary;    O,   Emasculator. 


Animal  Castration 


199 


Warning — On  account  of  the  thin  and  delicate  structure  of 
the  abdominal  wall  exceeding  care  must  be  exercised  in  suturing 
the  incision. 

Sterilization  of  Instruments  and  Cleansing  Hands  of  Operator 
— Same  as  for  calf  spaying. 

Operative  Technique— With  ewe  in  the  hanging  posture  the 


Fig.  180— Wound  Sutured.     E,  Wound;   F,  Sutures. 


200  Animal  Castration 

wool  is  clipped  from  field  of  operation,  after  which  it  is  cleansed 
by  washing:  with  soap  and  water  and  disinfected  by  painting  with 
tincture  iodine.  1.  With  knife  in  right  hand  begin  the  incision 
in  the  median  line  3  inches  below  the  brim  of  pubis,  and  extend  if 
downwards  for  a  distance  of  21/4  or  3  inches.  (See  Fig.  178.) 
This  incision  should  penetrate  all  layers  of  the  abdominal  wall. 

2.  With  index  and  second  finger  inside  the  abdomen  the  horns  and 
ovaries  are  readily  located,  after  which  withdraw  each  ovary  in 
turn  and  sever  them  from  their  attachments.     (See  Fig.  179.) 

3.  The  abdominal  incision  is  now  closed  by  three  interrupted 
*' through  and  through"  sutures,  care  being  taken  to  see  that  each 
coat  of  the  abdominal  wall  is  in  direct  apposition. 

After  Care  and  Treatment — The  spayed  animals  should  be 
turned  to  pasture  if  weather  conditions  are  favorable,  otherwise 
sanitar}^  well  bedded  quarters  are  to  be  provided.  If  sutures  do 
not  slough  out  they  should  be  removed  about  the  eighth  day. 


Animal  Castration  201 

CHAPTER  V. 

BITCH   SPAYING. 

Objects  and  Indications — Bitches  are  submitted  to  spaying 
operation  for  the  purpose  of  preventing  "heat"  and  pregnancy, 
both  of  which  are  necessarily  preceded  by  obscene  and  vulgar 
behavior  which  is  particularly  objectionable  to  home  folks  as  well 
as  neighbors.  A  bitch  in  "heat"  is  an  ideal  illustration  of  a 
private  as  well  as  public  nuisance.  She  is  undesirable  at  home 
and  unwelcome  abroad.  To  obviate  this,  spaying  is  the  only  re- 
course. The  spayed  bitch  is  a  more  desirable  animal  in  many 
respects  than  the  unspayed  one.  She  remains  contented  at  home. 
She  is  always  present  and  ready  when  called  for.  She  is  more 
kind,  docile  and  reliable  than  the  entire  bitch. 

Age — In  order  to  secure  the  best  results  it  is  advisable  to  spay 
the  bitch  puppy  before  she  comes  in  heat  the  first  time.  The  pref- 
erable age  is  3  to  6  months.  Aged  bitches  which  have  given  birth 
to  several  litters  of  pups  previous  to  spaying  sometimes  "come  in 
heat"  after  they  are  spayed.  Whether  or  not  such  jjhenomenon 
is  an  acquired  habit  the  author  is  unable  to  say. 

Season — Winter,  spring  and  fall. 

Preparation — An  empty  alimentary  tract  is  one  of  the  most 
important  adjuncts  to  spaying.  Food  should  be  withheld  for  36 
hours  previous  to  time  of  operating,  and  if  there  is  the  slightest 
evidence  of  constipation  a  dose  of  castor  oil  should  be  administered 
12  hours  before  spaying. 

Methods  of  Operating — There  are  two  well  defined  methods  of 
operating,  viz. :  Flank  method  and  belly  method.  They  both  have 
their  ardent  advocates.  Some  good  surgeons  prefer  and  advocate 
the  belly  method  while  some  better  surgeons  strongly  indorse  the 
flank  method.    The  author  greatly  prefers  the  belly  method. 

Anaesthesia — With  qualified  and  trained  assistants  and  hos- 
pital facilities  at  hand  the  operation  should  be  performed  under 


202 


Animal  Castration 


general  anaesthesia.  However,  when  these  safeguards  and  con- 
veniences are  not  available  it  is  permissible  to  operate  without 
anaesthesia. 

InstriDiiciits — 1.  Miles'  hook  knife  (Fig.  25).  2.  Canine  and 
feline  emasculator  (Figs.  102  and  103).  3.  Wound  retractor  (Fig. 
180  a).  While  the  wound  retractor  is  not  absolutely  essential,  nev- 
ertheless its  a2)i)lication  greatly  facilitates  locating  the  uterus  and 
fallopian  tubes  by  enabling  the  opei'ator  to  view  them  inside  the 


Fig.  ISO  a— Wound  Retractor.     (Actual  Size.) 


Fig.  180  b— Surgeon's  Full  Curved  Needle  No.  5.     (Actual  Size.) 

abdomen.  If  these  parts  are  seen  they  can  l)e  readily  gras[)od  with 
haemostatic  forceps  and  withdraw,  without  introducing  the  finger 
haemostatic  forceps  and  withdrawn,  without  introducing  the  finger 
(Fig.  180  h),  carrying  20  inches  No.  10  braided  silk  for  sutures. 
5.  Uterine  sound  (Fig.  180  c).  6.  Haemostatic  forceps.  7.  Kicli- 
ter's  needle  holder  (Fig.  34). 


Fig.   180   c— Uterine   Sound. 


Animal  Castration 


203 


Fig.    181 — External    and    Internal    Genital    Organs    of    Bitch.      A,    Vulva;     B,    Vagina; 
C,    Uterus;    DD,    Horns;    E-E,    Ovaries. 

Anatomy — There  is  little  or  no  doubt — on  account  of  anatom- 
ical conformation — that  the  bitch  is  the  most  tedious  and  difficult 
of  all  domestic  animals  to  spay  unless  it  be  one  exception — the  cat. 
In  order  to  make  satisfactory  progres  to  any  degree  whatsoever  in 
bitch  spaying  the  operator  must  possess  some  familiarity  with  the 
anatomy  of  the  organs  and  parts  involved. 


Fig.   182— A,   Broad  Ligament;    B,   Rent  in  Ligament;    C,  Ovary;    D,   Fallopian   Tubes; 
E-E,  Ligatures;   F,  Horn;   G,  Artery. 


204 


Axi:\iAL  Castration 


Vulva — The  vulva  has  tliick  labia  which  form  a  pointed  infe- 
rior commissure. 

Vagina — The  vagina  is  tubular  in  form  and  relatively  long. 
Its  walls  are  thick,  consisting  principally  of  circular  muscular 
fibers.  It  is  closely  related  with  the  rectimi  above  and  the  bladder 
below. 

Uterus — The  body  of  the  uterus  is  exceedingly  short,  rarely 
exceeding  one  inch  in  le  ngih.  Its  two  cornua  (horns)  are  long, 
and  their  diameter  small.  They  vary  in  length  in  different  size 
sluts  from  4  to  8  inches.  They  lie  loosely  inside  abdominal  cavit)^ 
closelv  associated  with  the  intestinal  convolutions.    Their  biflica- 


Fig.  183 — View  of  Interior  of  Abdominal  Cavity,  Showing  Internal  Genital  Organs  and 

Their  Relations.     A,  Urinary  Bladder;    B,  Uterus;    C-C,  Horns; 

D,  Biflications  of  Horns;   E-E,  Ovaries;   F,  Intestines. 


Animal  Castration 


205 


tion  is  V  shaped,  and  takes  place  immediately  under  fundus  of 
bladder.  The  broad  ligaments  are  long,  especially  in  their  middle. 
(See  Fig.  182.)  The  fallopian  tubes  are  small  in  diameter  and  1 
to  2%  inches  long. 

Ovaries — The  ovaries  are  bean  shaped  and  small  in  size.  Their 
surface  is  smooth.  They  are  enclosed  in  a  peritoneal  i:)ouch  (sac) 
and  are  attached  immediately  posterior  to  the  kidneys.    (Fig.  183) . 

Sterilizatio)i  of  Instruments  and  Cleansing  Hands  of  Operator 
— All  instruments,  sutures,  ligatures,  etc.,  used  in  connection  with 
the  operation  should  be  sterilized  by  boiling  for  15  or  20  minutes, 
after  which  immerse  them  in  Ijysol  or  Cresol  Compound,  U.  S.  P., 
in  the  strength  of  one  tablespoonful  to  each  quart  of  water.  The 
hands  should  be  thoroughly  cleansed  with  tincture  green  soap  and 


Fig.  184— Bitch  on  Table.     A-B,  Hind  Hobbles;   C-D,  Front  Hobbles;   E,  Incision; 
F,  Tape  Muzzle. 


206 


AxiMAL  Castration 


warm  water,  using  scrub  brush,  after  which  rinse  them  in  the 
above  prescribed  antiseptic  solution. 

Preparation  of  Operative  Field — Clip  or  shave  hair  from  site 
of  incision.  Wash  with  tincture  green  soap  and  warm  water, 
using  scrub  brush.  Rinse  with  antise])tic  solution,  after  which 
paint  with  tincture  iodine. 

Restraint  and  Position  (Belly  ^lethod) — Always  apply  the 
muzzle  to  begin  with.  If  suitalile  operating  table  is  available  it 
should  l)e  utilized.  What  we  mean  by  suitable  table  is  one  in  which 
top  will  elevate  to  the  perpendicular  or  almost  perpendicular  posi- 
tion. Tables  made  with  stationary  tops  have  no  place  in  this  oper- 
ation. If  a  table  is  not  used  then  an  inexpensive  as  well  as  a 
safe  and  satisfactory  method  is  that  designed,  taught  and  prac- 
ticed by  "Farmer"  Miles  (see  Fig.  185),  as  follows:  A  tape  muz- 
zle (F)  is  applied.  With  a  strong  cord  looj^ed  above  hocks  (B-B) 
and  thrown  over  spike  or  hook  (A)  in  ])ost  or  wall  (C)  the  animal 


B      .    j^     * 

i 

^A     i.- 7)  ^v 

1 

mm               >  Jm 

1 

Fig.    185 — "Farmer"    Miles    Motiiod    of   Restraint    for   Spaying   Operation. 


Animal  Castration 


207 


is  suspended  sufficiently  higii  for  the  site  of  operation  to  be  on  a 
level  with  operator's  breast.  With  another  strong  cord  (D)  looped 
above  elbows  (E-E),  the  operator's  leg  (G)  is  placed  through  its 
loop  for  the  purpose  of  making  sufficient  downward  traction  to 
limit  movement  of  animal.  In  this  position  the  intestines  gravi- 
tate downward  against  diaphram,  which  greatly  assists  in  locating 
and  removing  the  ovaries. 

Operative  Technique — A  site  is  selected  slightly  to  right  or  left 
of  the  median  line  about  2  to  3  inches  below  the  pubic  brim  for  the 


Fig.   186 — Abdominal 
Incision. 


Fig   187— Removing  Ovaries  Fig.  188— Incision  Closed  with 
with  Emasculator.     I,  Bit-  3  Interrupted  Sutures, 

lication;    J-J,    Horns;    K, 
Ovaries;  L,  Emasculator. 


beginning  o 


abdominal  incision.  This  incision  should  extend 
downwards  for  11/2  to  2  inches,  and  penetrate  all  coats  of  the 
abdominal  wall,  care  being  taken  not  to  injure  bladder  with  point 
of  knife.     (See  Fig.  186.)     If  prefered  there  is  no  objection  to 


208 


Animal  Castration 


introducing-  the  wound  retractors,  in  which  event  if  your  ])itch  is 
empty  and  the  light  bright — either  the  body  of  the  uterus  or  its 
horns  can  plainly  be  seen.  With  either  tissue  or  haemostatic  for- 
ceps the  horn  is  i)icked  up  and  drawn  out  abdominal  incision 
where  it  is  grasped  between  the  index  and  second  finger  of  the  left 
hand.  With  index  finger  of  right,  follow  the  horn  and  tube  down- 
ward to  its  attachment,  and  with  a  limited  amount  of  traction  on 
horn  the  ovary  is  torn  loose  with  the  finger  nail  and  brought  to 
the  outside.  AVith  free  end  of  tube  and  ovary  in  one  hand  the 
horn  is  followed  up  to  its  biflication.  AVhen  biflication  is  reached 
the  opposite  horn  is  grasped  and  opposite  ovary  located  and  re- 
moved from  al)domen  in  like  manner.  Both  ovaries  are  now  re- 
moved from  their  fallopian  tubes  with  emascvdator.  The  stump  of 
tubes  and  horns  are  replaced  in  abdominal  cavity.  Recleanse  the 
wound  by  sponging  with  antiseptic  solution,  after  which  close  with 
two  or  three  interrupted  "through  and  through"  sutures.  The 
animal  is  now  ready  to  release.  If  inexperienced  it  is  well  for  the 
operator  to  insert  uterine  sound  or  probe  into  the  vagina,  as  by  this 
means  the  finding  of  uterus  and  horns  is  oftentimes  greatly  facili- 
tated.   AVith  the  experienced  operator  the  sound  is  superfluous. 

Restraint  (Flank  Method) — The  usual  means  of  restraint  when 
spaying  by  this  method  is  the  application  of  a  tape  muzzle  and 
fixing  the  right  hind  and  both  fore  feet  together  with  a  strong 


Fig.  189 — Bitch  Spaying  (Flank  Method.)     A,  Abdominal  Incision;  U.  Knife;  C,  Left  Lei 
D,  Three  Legs  Fixed  Together;   E,  Muzzle. 


Animal  Castration 


209 


cord.    With  one  assistant  at  the  head  and  another  with  left  hind 
leg,  the  animal  is  sufficiently  secure  for  the  operation. 

Operative  Technique — The  site  of  incision  is  in  triangle  of 
flank.  This  triangle  is  bound  superiorly  by  transverse  processes 
of  lumbar  vertebrae.  Anteriorly  by  posterior  border  of  last  rib 
and  posteriorly  by  external  angle  of  illium.  The  direction  of  in- 
cision should  be  slightly  diagonal,  extending  downward  and  back- 
ward. About  11/2  inches  is  the  usual  length.  (See  Fig.  189.)  This 
iiicision  should  penetrate  all  coats  of  the  abdominal  wall  (skin, 
subcutaneous  connective  tissue,  fascia,  external  and  internal 
oblique  abdominal  muscles  and  peritoneum).  With  the  index 
finger  introduced  into  the  abdominal  cavity  the  uppermost  horn 
is  located  and  drawn  out  through  incision.  This  horn  and  tube 
are  followed  up — with  one  finger — until  its  ovary  is  located.  The 
ovary  is  torn  loose  from  its  attachment  and  brought  outside  the 
abdominal  cavity.  (See  Fig.  190.)  By  making  limited  traction 
on  this  horn  with  one  hand,  and  following  it  to  the  biflication  Vv'ith 
index  finger  on  other  hand,  the  opposite  horn  is  located  and  drawn 


Fig.  190— Bitch  Spaying   (Flank  Method.) 

outside  the  cavity.  With  finger  inside  the  cavity  the  ovary  is  torn 
fi'om  its  attachment  and  brought  outside.  The  tubes  may  now  be 
severed  with  emasculator  or  they  may  be  ligated  with  chromacized 
catgut  (10-day).    Thoroughly  cleanse  by  sponging  with  antiseptic 


210 


Animal  Castration 


Fig.  191 — Wound  Closed  by  Interrupted  Sutures.  (P)  Bitches  after  spaying  should 
have  the  wounds  protected  as  a  safeguard  against  infection  as  well  as  tearing  out 
sutures  with  the  teeth.  Two  methods  of  wound  protection  are  illustrated  in  Figs.  192 
and  193. 


Fig.  192     Protection  of  Wound  After  Spaying. 


Animal  Castration 


211 


Fig.  193 — Protection 


Spaying. 


solution  everything*  that  is  outside  the  abdominal  cavity,  after 
which  replace  the  stumps  of  tubes  and  suture  up  with  two  or  three 
'' through  and  through"  sutures.  (See  Fig.  191.)  Special  care 
should  be  exercised  to  see  that  the  peritoneum  is  included  in 
sutures.  Bitches  after  spaying  should  have  the  wounds  protected 
as  a  safeguard  against  infection  as  well  as  tearing  out  sutures  with 
the  teeth.  Two  methods  of  wound  protection  are  illustrated  in 
Figs.  192  and  193. 

After  Care  and  Treatment — The  bitch  should  be  confined  in 
small  sanitary  quarters  for  6  or  7  dajs.  Exercise  during  this  pe- 
riod is  harmful  and  oftentimes  dangerous.  Remove  sutures  in 
from  3  to  5  days,  depending  upon  condition  of  wound. 

Sequelae — The  chief  sequelae  to  be  faced  are  septic  peritonitis, 
shock,  internal  hemorrhage,  hernia  and  anorexia. 

1.  Septic  Peritonitis.  The  cause  of  septic  peritonitis  may  be 
attributed  to  uncleanliness  on  part  of  surgeon  while  operating,  un- 
clean hands,  contaminated  instruments,  failure  to  properly  cleanse 
and  disinfect  site  of  operation,  etc.  While  the  bitch  possesses  con- 
siderable more  immunity  to  septic  infection  than  some  other  ani- 
mals, nevertheless  it  behoves  the  operator  to  be  on  the  constant 


212  Animal  Castration 

lookout  for  sepsis,  and  to  take  all  reasonable  precautions  to  pre- 
vent it. 

2.  SJiock.  When  the  operation  is  unnecessarily  prolonged  and 
considerable  blood  lost,  shock  is  by  no  means  an  unusual  secpielae. 
Shock  is  not  so  liable  to  occur  when  general  anaesthesia  is  em- 
ployed. If  shock  is  of  such  a  desperate  character  as  to  require 
treatment  proceed  as  follows:  Protect  the  body  from  cold  by 
placing  patient  in  a  warm  room  and  blanketing.  Strychnine  and 
nitro-glyccrine,  or  adrenalin  chloride,  may  be  administered  hypo- 
dermically.  Alcohol  and  ammonia  internally.  If  reaction  does 
not  begin  quite  promptly  resort  should  be  had  to  normal  saline 
solution  subcutaneously  or  intra-yeinously. 

3.  Internal  Heniorrliage.  If  for  any  reason  the  emasculator 
fails  to  properly  crush  the  artery  internal  hemorrhage  to  a  lesser 
or  greater  degree  may  be  reasonably  expected.  If  at  the  time  of 
spaying  the  bitch  is  in  "heat,"  or  in  event  of  pregnancy,  the 
horns  and  tubes  are  greatly  congested  and  enlai'ged.  In  such 
cases  the  emasculator  should  not  be  depended  upon  to  control  the 
hemorrhage.  The  ligature  should  be  resorted  to.  Nature  will  do 
much  to  prevent  internal  hemorrhage.  However,  death  from  such 
a  cause  sometimes  occurs.  Unless  the  hemorrhage  is  very  profuse 
reopening  the  abdomen  for  purpose  of  controlling  it  is  of  doubt- 
ful value.  Ordinarily,  the  best  plan  is  to  administer  stimulants, 
consisting  of  strychnine,  nitro-giycerine,  adrenalin,  chloride  and 
saline  solution,  and  leave  the  abdominal  cavity  alone. 

4.  Hernia.  Careless  or  improper  suturing  and  septic  infection 
are  the  causes  of  hernia  following  spaying  operation.  By  exer- 
cising extreme  care  in  suturing  the  wound  and  fortifying  against 
sepsis  by  taking  the  necessary  auseptic  and  antiseptic  precautions 
the  occurrence  of  hernia  will  be  extremely  rare. 

5.  Anorexia.  In  a  few  instances  it  is  extremely  difficult — even 
in  the  absence  of  any  perceptible  grave  systemic  distur])ance — to 
induce  the  recently  spayed  bitch  to  eat  and  drink.  They  sometimes 
actually  die  from  starvation.  Forced  feeding  with  malted  milk  or 
coco-emulsion  cod  liver  oil  is  indicated.    Drugs  are  of  little  avail. 


Animal  Castration  213 

CHAPTER  VI. 

CAT  SPAYING. 

Objects  and  Indications — Cats  are  submitted  to  spaying  opera- 
tion for  the  purpose  of  preventing  "heat"  and  pregnanc3%  princi- 
pal]}^ the  latter.  After  spaying  they  remain  at  home  better  and  ai-e 
more  desirable  pets  than  before. 

Age — The  best  results  are  attained  if  the  cat  is  spayed  before 
she  "comes  in  heat"  the  first  time  (prior  to  pubity).  On  account 
of  small  size  of  cat — especially  if  an  attempt  is  made  at  an  early 
age — the  operation  is  extremely  tedious.  Best  to  operate  at  6  to 
8  months  old. 

Season — Winter,  spring  and  fall. 

Preparation — Withhold  food  for  24  to  30  hours  previous  to 
operating  in  order  that  the  alimentary  tract  may  be  empty. 

Methods — Flank  method  and  belly  method.  The  author  pre- 
fers the  belly  method. 

Anaesthesia — On  account  of  a  natural  as  well  as  an  acquired 
tendency  to  bite  and  scratch  ferociously  whenever  submitted  to 
operation  of  almost  any  character,  general  anaesthesia  should  be 
employed  whenever  possible. 

Instrmnents — 1.  Miles'  hook  knife  (Fig.  25).  2.  Canine  and 
feline  emasculator  (Figs.  102,  103).  3.  Wound  retractor  (Fig. 
.180  a).  4.  Surgeon's  full  curved  needle  No.  5  (Fig.  180  h),  carry- 
ing 18  inches  sterilized  braided  silk  No.  10.  5.  Long,  slender  probe. 
6.  Haemostatic  forceps. 

Anatomy — The  cat  is  the  most  difficult  and  tedious  of  all  do- 
mestic animals  to  spay.  The  anatomical  conformation  and  small 
size  of  the  parts  and  organs  concerned  in  the  operation  largely 
account  for  its  extreme  tediousness.  As  for  the  author's  part  he 
would  greatly  prefer  spaying  ten  heifers  to  one  cat.  In  fact,  he 
would  prefer  spaying  twice  ten  heifers  to  spaying  one  kitten.  As 
a  general  proposition  the  internal  generative  organs  of  the  cat 


214 


Animal  Castration 


are  similar  in  all  material  respects  to  those  of  the  bitch  except,  of 
course,  those  of  cat  are  on  a  much  smaller  scale.    Their  conforma- 


Fig.  194 — External  and  Internal  Genitals  of  Cat. 


Fig.  195 — View  of  Interior  of  Abdominal  Cavity.    A,  Biflication;  B,  Rectum;  C,  Bladder; 
D-D,  Horns;  E-E,  Ovaries;  F,  Intestines. 


Animal  Casteation 


215 


tion  and  anatomical  relation  are  the  same  in  both  animals.     (See 
Figs.  194  and  195.) 

Sterilization  of  Intruments  and  Cleansing  Hands  of  Operator 
— Same  as  for  bitch  spaying.    See  page  205. 

Preparation  of  Operative  Field — Same  as  for  bitch  spaying. 
See  page  206. 

Bestraint  (Belly  Method) — It  is  desirable  to  fix  the  cat  securely 
to  operating  table  (Figs.  196  and  197).  In  event  table  is  not 
available  a  wide  board  may  be  used. 

Operative  Technique — Same  as  for  bitch  spaying. 

Restraint  (Flank  Method)— Right  hind  and  both  fore  legs  are 
fixed  together  with  strong  cord.  I^eft  hind  leg  and  head  are  held 
by  assistant.    (See  Fig.  198). 


Fig.  196 — Cat  Fixed  to  Table  for  Spaying  Operation.    E,  Abdominal  Incision. 


216 


Aniimal  Castration 


Fig.  197 — Incision  Closed  with  Two  Interrupted  Sutures. 


Fig.   198 — Cat  Tied  and   in    Proper  Position   for  Flank  Spaying.     A,   Incision;    B,   Legs 

I^^ixed  Together. 


Animal  Castration 


217 


Fig.    199— Cat    Spaying    (Flank    Method).      E,    Emasculator;    D,    Ovary;    F,    Abdominal 

Incision. 


Fig.   200^ — Wound   Closed   with   Two  Interrupted   Sutures.     F,    Sutures. 

Operative  Technique — Same  as  for  bitch  spaying.     (See  pages 
207-209.) 

After  Care  and  Treatment — Same  as  for  bitch  spaying.     See 
page  211. 

Sequelae— ^ame  as  for  bitch  spaying.     (See  page  211.) 


218  Animal  Castration 

CHAPTER  VII. 

POULAKDIZING. 

The  operation  of  poulardiziiig  simply  means  unsexing  the 
female  ehir-ken.    In  other  words,  spaying  the  ]3nllet. 

Objects  and  Indications — The  primary  object  in  making  pou- 
lardes  of  pnllets  is  for  the  purpose  of  growing  them  to  quick  ma- 
turity without  the  handicap  of  egg  production.  It  is  a  positively 
known  fact  that  poulardes  mature  and  develop  more  ra])idly  than 
the  entire  pullet  or  hen.  The  texture,  flavor  and  nutritive  proper- 
ties of  their  meat  is  greatly  improved.  Poulardes  meat  bears  the 
same  relation  to  that  of  the  hen  as  the  meat  of  a  spayed  heifer 
bears  to  that  of  the  old  cow.  The  operation  has  been  practiced  on 
a  lai'ge  scale  for  many  years  in  France  and  Germany,  and  to  a 
limited  extent  in  America.  The  results  would  justify  its  more 
universal  adoption.  The  poularde  never  cackles,  and  like  the 
capon  becomes  an  outcast. 

Age — Two  to  three  months. 

Season — Late  spring,  summer  and  early  fall. 

Preparation — AVithhold  all  food  for  at  least  30  hours  before 
operating.  It  is  impossible  to  do  a  satisfactory  operation  on  a 
pullet  with  full  alimentary  tract.  To  begin  with  a  full  abdominal 
cavity  x:)revents  locating  and  examining  the  Qgg  cluster,  to  say 
nothing  of  its  interference  with  the  operation  itself. 

Restraint — On  a  box  or  barrel  acting  as  an  operating  table  the 
pullet  is  confined  for  operation  same  as  for  that  of  caponizing. 
Two  pieces  of  strong  cord  are  i3rocured,  upon  each  end  a  loo]:>  is 
made.  To  one  end  a  weight  is  attached  (see  A-A,  Fig.  201),  after 
which  the  free  end  of  one  cord  is  looped  above  feet  and  the  other 
cord  is  looped  around  wings.  The  pullet  is  now  stretched  full 
length — left  side  uppeiTnost — on  table.  This  is  a  quick  and  inex- 
pensive method  of  restraint  and  at  the  same  time  a  satisfactory 
one  for  the  operation. 


Animal  Castration 


219 


Fig.  201— Restraint  for  Poulardeing.     A-A,  Weights  at  End  of  Cords;  B,  Leg  of  Fowl  in 
Loop;   C,  Wings  in  Loop;   D,  Incision. 

Instruments — 1.  Caponiziiig  knife  (Fig.  116).  2.  Spreaders 
(Figs,  117,  118,  119).  3.  Haemostatic  or  tissue  forceps  (small 
size).    4.  Curved  scissors  (Fig.  35). 

Breeds — It  is  not  profitable  to  attempt  to  make  poulardes  from 
the  small  breeds  of  chickens.  Better  select  those  of  the  larger 
breeds,  viz.:  Indian  Games,  Brahmas,  Cochins,  Langshans,  Ply- 
mouth Rocks,  Orpingtons,  Wyandottes,  etc.  All  make  good  i^ou- 
lardes. 

Anatomy — Some  idea  of  the  anatomy  of  the  parts  involved  and 
their  relation  is  necessary  before  progress  can  be  made  with  this 
operation.  Fig.  202  shows  the  egg  cluster  (E)  which  corresponds 
to  the  ovary  in  animals,  and  Qgg  passage  (F)  which  corresponds 
to  the  uterus  in  animals.  This  illustration  was  purposely  made 
from  a  grown  hen.  One  object  in  doing  so  was  to  enable  the  ama- 
teur operator  to  know  the  comparative  between  the  internal  geni- 
tals of  a  hen  and  those  of  a  pullet  of  proper  age  and  size  for  oper- 


220 


Animal  Castration 


^ 


>-  -^.S" 


I    ,i. 


r 


i''^- 

i^'^       X 


■'^ 


m 


Fig.  202 — Internal  Genital  Organs  of  Hen.     E,  Egg  Cluster;  F,  Egg  Passage. 


Fig.    203— Internal   Genitals   of   Hen.     A.   Egg  Cluster;    B-B,   Egg   Passage;    C,   Cloaca; 
D,  Frimbriated  Extremit.v  of  Fallopian  Tube. 


Animal  Castration 


221 


ation.  Fig.  203  shows  the  organs  removed  from  the  abdomiTml 
cavity  of  hen.  They  consist  of  (A)  egg  chister,  (B-B)  egg  pas- 
sage, (C)  cloaca,  (D)  frimbriated  extremity  of  fallopian  tubes. 
The  egg  cluster  lies  in  close  proximity  to  the  vertebral  column, 
slightly  posterior  to  the  lungs.  From  it  the  fallopian  tubes  and 
egg  passage  proceed  backward — in  close  relation  to  the  vertebi'al 
column,  aorta  and  vena  cava — to  its  outlet — cloaca.  In  the  pullet 
the  egg  cluster  and  egg  passage  are  small.    (See  Fig.  204.) 


Fig.  204 — Intestines  Removed  in  Order  to  Show  Position  of  Egg  Cluster  and  Egg  Passage. 
G,  Egg  Cluster;  H,  Egg  Passage. 

In  a  pullet  of  proper  age  for  operation  the  egg  passage  is  no 
larger  than  an  average  size  broom  straw.  The  egg  cluster  in  such 
a  pullet  is  small  and  flat,  and  shows  no  evidence  of  egg  formation. 
Beginners  are  urgently  advised  to  kill  and  carefully  examine  these 
parts  in  a  full  grown  hen,  also  a  three-months-old  pullet  before 
operating. 

Warmufj — ^^In  removing  section  from  egg  passage  caution 
should  be  exercised  not  to  sever  either  the  aorta  or  vena  cava. 
Both  are  large  and  important  blood  vessels,  and  should  either  of 
them  be  seA^ered  death  from  internal  hemorrhage  is  almost  instan- 
taneous. It  is  important  to  have  extra  good  light  in  order  that  the 
abdominal  cavity  be  illuminated  sufficiently  to  locate  the  parts. 
Bright  sunshine  is  the  ideal  light  for  this  opei'ation.  Out-of-doors 
is  the  place,  and  from  10  a.  m.  to  2  p.  m.  is  the  time. 


222 


Animal  Castration 


Operative  Technique — With  left  side  uppermost  the  feathers 
are  phicked  from  site  of  incision — last  intercostal  space.  The  skin 
is  chilled  hy  allowing  a  glass  of  cold  water  to  slowly  trickle  over 
it.  This  chilling  process  has  a  tendency  to  reduce  capillary  hem- 
orrhage from  the  skin.  With  knife  begin  high  between  the  last 
two  ribs  and  make  an  incision  1  to  IY2  inches  long,  severing 
through  skin  and  both  layers  of  intercostal  muscle  down  to  the 
transparent  i^eritoneum.  Since  the  intercostal  artery  follows 
closely  the  posterior  (l)ack)  border  of  the  rib  this  incision  should 
be  made  as  close  to  the  anterior  border  (front)  of  the  last  rib  as 
possible.    The  spreaders  are  now  inserted.    This  ojiens  the  wound, 


Fig.  205 — Making  a  Poularde.     E,  Abdominal  Incision;  G,  Spreaders;   F,  Thum  Forceps. 


and  through  the  transparent  menibraue  (])eritoneum)  covering 
the  intestines  the  egg  cluster  is  examined,  if  there  is  evidence  of 
advanced  egg  formation  it  is  not  profitable  to  make  a  poularde. 
More  i:>rofitable  to  release  her  for  Qgg  production,  in  which  event 
the  abdominal  cavity  is  not  opened.  The  spreaders  are  simply 
removed  and  the  fowl  released.  On  the  other  hand,  if,  upon  exam- 
ination of  the  Ggg  cluster — through  the  transparent  peritoneum — 
there  is  no  evidence  of  Qgg  formation  the  peritoneum  is  knicked 
sufficient  to  open  the  abdominal  cavity.     Beginning  close  to  the 


Animal  Castration 


223 


egg  cluster  a  one-inch  section  of  the  egg  passage  is  removed  with 
forceps  and  scissors.  This  stops  egg  formation.  By  reference  to 
Fig.  206  an  idea  may  be  had  of  the  exact  location  of  the  egg  pas- 
sage and  the  part  of  it  to  be  removed  in  operating.  The  spreader 
is  now  removed.  This  allows  the  ribs  to  come  together,  which 
automatically  closes  the  incision. 


L 

My 

J 

^       .     " "1 

Fii 


20G — Removing  Section  from  Egg  Passage.     I-J,  Foi'ceps;   K,  Egg  Passage;   L,  Tlie 
Section  of  Egg  Passage  Between  Forceps  is  to  be  Removed;  M,  Egg  Cluster. 


After  Care  and  Treatment — Upon  being  released  from  the 
operating  table  poulardes  are  usually  put  in  a  closed  yard  where 
they  can  find  shelter,  food  and  water,  and  can  be  kept  quiet.  No 
roosts  are  provided,  as  the  less  flying  and  jumping  they  do  the 
sooner  will  the  wound  heal.  The  poulardes  seem  to  be  very  little 
inconvenienced  by  the  operation,  and  water  and  soft  feed  mixed 
with  sweet  skim  milk  can  be  given  immediately.  Some  feeders 
give  this  in  unlimited  quantity,  while  others  feed  more  sparingly 
for  a  time. 

For  a  week  or  ten  days  the  newly  made  poulardes  should  be 
carefully  observed  to  see  whether  they  become  "wind-puffed." 
This  is  a  condition  caused  by  air  gathering  under  and  puffing  out 
the  skin  near  the  wound.  When  observed  it  can  be  readily  relieved 
by  pricking  the  skin  with  a  needle  or  knife  and  pressing  out  the  air. 


224  AxiMAL  Castration 

CHAPTER  VIII. 

DEODORIZING  THE  SKUNK. 

AVliile  removing  the  scent  from  a  skunk  has  not  the  remotest 
relation — either  directly  or  indirectly — with  animal  castration, 
nevertheless,  on  account  of  its  novelty  and  the  dearth  of  reliable 
literature  with  reference  to  the  subject  the  author  considers  it  of 
sufficient  interest  and  importance  for  brief  mention  in  the  conclud- 
ing pages  of  this  volume. 

Objects  and  liuUcatioiis — It  should  be  rem('m])ered  that  the 
skunk  has  no  effective  means  of  protection  or  defense  aside  from 
the  scent  fluid  which  it  possesses  and  uses  without  stint  when  it 
becomes  necessary.  Ordinarily,  the  fluid  discharged  by  the  skunk 
is  amply  sufficient  to  ward  off  most  any  character  of  attack  and 
protect  the  animal  from  danger.  The  scent  fluid  is  only  discharged 
when  the  animal  is  alarmed  or  frightened,  and  contrary  to  the 
prevailing  popular  opinion,  is  not  urine,  and  has  no  connection 
with  the  urinary  apparatus.  Skunks  are  deodorized  for  the  pur- 
pose of  converting  them  into  desirable  household  pets.  Such  ani- 
mals never  scratch  and  rarely  ever  bite.  They  are  absolutely 
harmless. 

Afjc — They  should  be  operated  upon  at  an  early  age  (15  to  30 
days  old),  as  the  mortality  rate  following  operation  in  the  mature 
skunk  is  very  high. 

Season — Whenever  you  can  succeed  in  catching  them.  This  is 
one  animal  at  least  you  must  catch  before  you  can  operate. 

Preparation — If  jjossible  the  young  animals  (kittens)  should 
be  kept  and  fondled  for  several  days  before  they  are  submitted 
to  operation.  They  should  become  accustomed  to  being  handled. 
By  thus  preparing  them  they  may  be  handled  through  the  prepara- 
tory stages  of  the  operation  without  voiding  the  scent  fluid. 

Restraint — The  operation  must  be  done  undei-  a  glass  in  order 
to  protect  operator  and  assistants.    A  large  pane  of  window  glass 


Animal  Castration  225 

should  be  supported  at  each  end  and  raised  about  10  inches  from 
the  floor.  Two  assistants  are  necessaiy.  Rubber  gloves  should  be 
worn  by  the  operator  and  both  assistants.  The  animal  is  carefully 
placed  under  the  glass,  after  which  one  assistant  should  grasp  the 
head  and  fore  feet  and  the  other  assistant  grasp  hind  feet,  and  hold 
the  posterior  parts  in  such  position  as  to  cause  the  discharged  scent 
fluid  to  be  deposited  against  under  side  of  glass.  Most  of  the  fluid 
will  at  this  time  be  discharged  quite  promptly.  Very  little  will  be 
kept  in  reserve.  In  fact,  the  operation  could  be  proceeded  with 
to  completion  without  the  glass. 

Instruments — 1.  Scalpel.  2.  "Rat  tooth  "haemostatic  forceps. 
3.  Curved  scissors  (Fig.  35). 

Anatomy — The  anis  is  a  large  irregular  elliptical  depression 
surrounded  by  loose  flabby  skin  which  bulges  over  site  of  anal 
(scent)  glands.  These  glands  are  two  in  number  located  on  each 
side  (laterally)  of  the  anis.  There  is  about  one-half  inch  space 
l)etween  the  anis  and  center  of  the  aual  glands. 


Kig.   207 — Diagramatic  Illustraticn    Showing   Scent   Secreting  and  Expelling  Apparatus. 

A,  Anis;  B-B,  Jet  or  Nipp.e-like  Openings  of  Anal  Ducts;  C-C,  Ducts; 

D-D,  Anal  Glands;  E-E,  Sacs  or  Reservoirs. 

The  scent  secreting  apparatus  is  large,  and  consists  of  nume]-- 
ous  small  glands — closely  associated — surrounding  a  sac  or  reser- 
voir for  storing  up  the  fluid.  They  are  covered  by  skin,  subcuta- 
neous connective  tissue,  and  two  thin  layers  of  muscular  fiber,  viz. : 
Iscio  cavernous  and  bulbo-cavernous  muscles.  The  glandular 
organ  is  surrounded  by  a  well  defined  envelope.  Each  gland  is 
supplied  with  an  excretory  duct.  These  ducts  project  through  the 
lateral  walls  of  rectum  immediately  anterior  to  anis.  Their  open- 
ings are  nipple  or  jet-like  for  the  purpose  of  governing  direction 
of  the  stream.  Whenever  the  skunk  considers  itself  in  danger  its 
behavior  is  as  follows :  1.  Turns  posterior  parts  toward  the  object 
of  attack.     2.  Elevates  tail.     3,  Inverts  rectum  which  exposes 


226 


Animal  Castration 


nipple-like  openings  of  the  dncts.  4.  By  volnntarv  muscular  con- 
traction the  sac  or  scent  reservoir  is  compressed  and  the  scent  fluid 
expelled.  This  fluid  may  be  thrown  for  a  distance  of  12  to  15  feet, 
and  the  direction  of  the  stream  is  under  thorough  control  of  the 
skunk.  Of  course,  the  amount  of  fluid  is  quite  limited,  but  it  is 
usually  sufficient  to  suffice.  The  character  of  the  fluid  is  dirty 
brown  and  feted,  and  is  slightly  phosphorescent  at  night. 


Fig.  20S — View  of  Posterior  Aspect  of  Skunk.     A,  Anis;    B-B,  Anal  Glands. 


Stenlization  of  linitnuncnts  and  Cleansing  Operator's  Hands 
— The  instruments  should  be  sterilized  by  boiling  15  to  20  minutes, 
after  which  immerse  them  in  Lysol  or  Cresol  Compound,  U.  S.  P., 
in  the  strength  of  one  tablespoonful  to  each  quart  of  water.  Wash 
hands  with  tincture  green  soap,  using  scrub  brush,  after  which 
rinse  them  with  the  above  mentioned  antiseptic  solution. 

Preparation  of  Operative  Field — Don't  forget  that  the  skunk 
is  now  supposed  to  be  under  the  glass.  Clip  hair  from  around  the 
rectum  for  a  distance — in  each  direction — of  at  least  one  inch. 
Wash  parts  with  antiseptic  solution  and  paint  skin  over  site  of 
incisions  with  tincture  iodine. 


Animal  Castration 


227 


Fig.  209 — View  Sliowing  Incisions  Over  Site  of  Anal  Glands.     A,  Rectum;  B-B,  Incision. 

Warning — In  making  incisions  and  dissecting  out  anal  glands 
exercise  extreme  care  in  order  to  avoid  injury  to  either  rectal  or 
anal  walls,  or  to  the  genito-urinary  passages. 

Operative  Teclinique — Locate  the  glands — on  each  side  of  rec- 
tum— by  palpitation.  A  perpendicular  incision  one  inch  long  is 
made  directly  over  center  of  most  prominent  part  of  each  gland, 
a])out  one-half  inch  from  rectum  (see  Fig.  209).  These  incisions 
should  penetrate  skin  and  subcutaneous  connective  tissue  only. 
With  rat  tooth  haemostatic  forceps  or  small  size  vulsellum  forceps 
the  glandular  organ  is  grasped,  and  with  limited  traction  applied 
by  forceps  the  parts  are  isolated  by  careful  dissection,  after  which 
sever  the  duct  close  to  rectal  wall  and  the  operation  is  completed. 
The  incision  should  be  left  open  to  heal  by  granulation. 

After  Care  and  Treatment — About  all  that  is  necessary  is  to 
place  the  animal  in  warm  sanitary  quarters.  The  wounds  will  heal 
and  complete  recovery  take  place  by  the  tenth  day. 


INDEX. 


INDEX 


Page 

Abscess   74 

AzoTURiA  77-78 

Bitch  Spaying 201-212 

Objects  and  Indications  201 

Age    201 

Season  201 

Preparation    201 

Methods  of  Operating 201 

Anaesthesia   201-202 

Instruments    202 

Anatomy 203-205 

Restraint  (Belly  Method)   206-207 

Operative  Technique  (Belly  Method)   .  .207-208 

Restraint  (Flank  Method)  208-209 

Operative  Technique  (Flank  Method)  .  .209-211 

Alfter  Care  and  Treatment 211 

Sequelae   211-212 

Boar — Castration  of  the 105-110 

Objects  and  Indications  105 

Age 105 

Season  105 

Preparation   105 

Restraint   105-107 

Instruments  107-108 

Operative  Technique  108-110 

After  Care  and  Treatment 110 

Sequelae    110 

Boar— Castration  of  the  Monorchid  and  Crypt- 
orchid  111-115 

Objects  and  Indications  Ill 

Age Ill 

Preparation   Ill 

Warning 111-112 

Restraint   112 

Instruments   112 

Operative  Technique  113-114 

After  Care  and  Treatment 114-115 


INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Boar— Castration  of  the  RuPTUREn 115-123 

Objects  and   Indications    116-117 

Aji-o   117 

Season  117 

Preparation    117 

Restraint 117 

Instruments   117 

Operative  Technique 118-123 

After  Care  and  Treatment   123 

Bull  Castration  92-101 

Objects  and  Indications 92 

Age 92 

Season   92 

Preparation    92 

Anatomy    94-95 

After  Care  and  Treatment 99 

Bull— Castration  in  Recu:\ibent  Posture  ....     92-99 

Restraint  for 92-9-t 

Operative  Technique 96-99 

Bull— Castration  in  the  Standing  Posture  .  .100-101 

Caponizing   143-151 

Definition    143 

History    143 

Objects  and  Indications  143-144 

Selection  of  Breeds  144 

Age 144 

Season   144 

Restraint    145 

Instruments   145-147 

Anatomy  147 

Preparation    148 

Operative  Technique   148-150 

After  Care  and  Treatment   150-151 

Moi-talitv   151 

Calf  Spaying  .  ." 179-184 

Objects  and  Indications   179-180 

Age    180 

Season    180 

Preparati(ai    170 

Restraint    180-181 

Instruments   181 

Operative  Technique  (Flank  Method) .  .181-183 
Operative  Technique  (Belly  Method)  .  .  183 
Secjuelae    184 


INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Casting— Injuries  From  76 

Castration— Definition  of 13 

History  of   13 

Aincient  Methods  of 13 

Modern  Methods  of 13 

Castration  of  the  Boar 105-110 

Objects  and  Indications  105 

Age 105 

Season  105 

Preparation    105 

Restraint   105-107 

Instruments   107-108 

Operative  Technique  108-110 

After  Care  and  Treatment 110 

Sequelae    110 

Castration  of  the  Cryptorchid  and  Monorchid 

Boar  111-115 

Objects  and  Indications  Ill 

Age Ill 

Preparation    Ill 

Warning 111-112 

Eestraint    112 

Instruments   112 

0])erative  Technique   113-114 

After  Care  and  Treatment 114-115 

Castration  of  the  Ruptured  Boar 115-123 

Objects  and  Indications    116-117 

Age   117 

Season  117 

Preparation    117 

Restraint 117 

Instruments   117 

Operative  Technique  118-123 

After  Care  and  Treatment   123 

Castration  of  the  Bull 92-101 

Objects  and  Indications 92 

Age 92 

Season   92 

Preparation   92 

Anatomv    94-95 

After  Care  and  Treatment 99 

Castration  of  the  Bull  in  Recumbent  Posture    92-99 

Restraint  for 92-94 

Operative  Technique  96-99 


INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Oastratiox  of  the  Bull  ix  Staxdixg  Posture  .  .100-101 

Oastratiox  of  the  Cryptorchid  axd  Moxorchid 

Bull   101-104 

Objects  and  Indications  92 

Age    101 

Preparation    101 

Eestraint   101 

Instrnments    101 

Operative  Technique 102-104 

After  Care  and  Treatment 104 

Castratiox  of  the  Cat 141-142 

0])jects  and  Indications  141 

Age 141 

Season  141 

Preparation    141 

Eestraint   141-142 

Instrmnents   131 

Anatomy  142 

Operative  Technique 138-134 

After  Care  and  Treatment 142 

Castratiox  of  the  Colt  36-42 

Objects  and  Indications   14 

Age 36 

Season  36 

Preparation    14 

Anatomy    19-22 

Complications  in    47-73 

Eestraint  for 36-39 

Instruments  for   39 

Warning 23-24 

0]:>erative  Technique  40-42 

After  Care  and  Treatment 28 

Sequelae   74-91 

Prognosis    28 

Castratiox  of  the  Dog 131-135 

Objects  and  Indications   131 

Age 131 

Season   131 

Preparation    131 

Eestraint 131 

Instruments   131 

Anatomy  133 

Operative  Technique  33-134 

After  Care  and  Treatment 134-135 


INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Castration  of  the  Crittorchid  and  Monorchid 

Dog  135-140 

Objects  and  Indications  135-136 

Age  136 

Season  136 

Preparation   136 

Restraint    137 

Instrmnents   137 

Anatomy    137-138 

Operative  Technique  138-139 

After  Care  and  Treatment 140 

Castration  of  the  Her:m aphrodite 71-73 

Definition    71 

Objects  and  Indications  71 

Age 1-i 

Season  72 

Preparation   14 

Restraint 54-57 

Anatomy   72 

Instruments  57-59 

Operative  Technique   73 

After  Care  and  Treatment 69-70 

Castration  of  the  Mitle 43-46 

Objects  and  Indications  43 

Age   43 

Season  43 

Preparation   14 

Restraint  for 36-39 

Instruments  for  39 

Warning 23-24 

Operative  Technique 43-46 

After  Care  and  Treatment 28 

Sequelae   -  ^^4-91 

Castration  of  the  Ram  124-130 

Objects  and  Indications  124 

Age 124 

Season   124 

Preparation   124 

Restraint 124 

Instruments    124 

Anatomy 125 

Operative  Technique  127-129 

After  Care  and  Treatment 129 


INDEK— Continued. 

Page 

Castratiox  of  the  Stalliox  14-35 

Objects  and  Indications  14 

Age    14 

Season   14 

Preparation    14 

Anatomy 19-22 

Complications  in 47-73 

After  Care  and  Treatment 28 

Seqnelae   74-91 

Prognosis    28 

Castratiox  of  Stalliox  ix  REcr:MBEXT  Posture  14-28 

Restraint  for 14-16 

Instrnments  for   16-19 

Warning 23-24 

Operative  Techniqne   25-27 

Castratiox  of  Stalliox  ix  Staxdixg  Posture.  .  29-35 

Restraint  for 29 

Instruments  for    29 

Warning   30 

Operative  Technique 31-34 

Advantages    34 

Disadvantages   34 

Castratiox  of  the  Cryptorchid  axd  Moxorchid 

Stalliox    51-70 

Definition    51 

Classification   51-53 

Objects  and  Indications 53 

Diagnosis   53 

Age  54 

Season  54 

Preparation 54 

Restraint   54-57 

Instrinnents   57-59 

Anatomy    19-22 

AYarning   59 

Cleansing  and  Disinfecting  Field  of  Op- 
eration    59 

Operative  Technique  60-66 

After  Care  and  Treatment 69-70 

Sequelae    70 

Cat — Castratiox  of  the 141-142 

Objects  and  Indications   141 

Age 141 


INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Season  141 

Preparation    141 

Eestraint  141-142 

Instruments   131 

Anatomy 142 

Operative  Technique  133-134 

After  Care  and  Treatment 142 

Cat  Spaying  213-217 

Objects  and  Indications  213 

Age  213 

Season  213 

Preparation   213 

Methods    213 

Anaesthesia  213 

Instruments   213 

Anatomy 213-215 

Restraint  (Belly  Method)    215 

Operative  Technique  (Bellv  Method) .  .207-209 

Restraint  (Flank  Method)  215-217 

Operative  Technique  (Flanli  Method)  .  .209-211 

Sequelae   211-212 

Colt — Castration  of  the  36-42 

Objects  and  Indications  14 

Age 36 

Season 36 

Preparation   14 

Anatomy    19-22 

Complications  in   47-73 

Restraint  for 36-39 

Instruments  for   39 

Warning 23-24 

Operative  Technique  40-42 

After  Care  and  Treatment   28 

Sequelae   74-91 

Prognosis   28 

Colic   ^"^ 

Cord— ScHiEROus   82-86 

Cow  Spaying 164-170 

Objects  and  Indications  164 

Age 164 

Season   164 

Preparation  164-166 

Restraint   166 

Instrimients   166 


INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Anatomy 166-167 

Warning   167 

Operative  Technique   167-170 

After  Care  and  Treatment 170 

Deodorizixg  the  Skixk   224-227 

Objects  and  Indications   224 

Age 224 

Season  224 

Preparation    224 

Restraint   224-225 

Instruments   225 

Anatomy 225-226 

AYarning   227 

Ojjerative  Technique   227 

After  Care  and  Treatment 227 

Dog— Castratiox  of  the  131-135 

Objects  and  Indications  131 

Age 131 

Season  131 

Preparation    131 

Restraint" 131 

Instruments   131 

Anatomy  133 

Operative  Technique    133-134 

After  Care  and  Treatment 134-135 

Dog— Ceyptoechid  axd  Moxorchid,  Castration 

OF 135-140 

Objects  and  Indications  135-136 

Age  136 

Season  136 

Preparation    136 

Restraint    137 

Instruments   137 

Anatomv    137-138 

Operative  Technique  138-139 

After  Care  and  Treatment 140 

E\YE  SrAYixG    197-200 

Objects  and  Indications   197 

Age  197 

Season 197 

Preparation    197 

Restraint   197 

Instruments    197 

Anatomv  198 


INDEX- Continued. 

Page 

Warning  199 

Operative  Technique  199-200 

After  Care  and  Treatment 200 

Exuberant  Granulations 86-87 

Granulations— Exuberant    86-87 

Heifer  Spaying   170-179 

Objects  and  Indications   170 

Age 170 

Season  170 

Preparation    170 

Eestraint 170-171 

Instruments   171-173 

Operative  Technique 174-179 

Hemorrhage— Nature's  Methods  of  Controll- 
ing        22-23 

Primary    78-79 

Secondary    79 

Hernia — Inguinal   47-51 

Scrotal   47-51 

Hydrocele   87-91 

Hermaphrodite— Castration  of  the  ' 71-73 

Definition    71 

Objects  and  Indications   71 

Age 14 

Season   72 

Preparation   14 

Restraint 54-57 

Anatomy   72 

Instruments 57-59 

Operative  Technique   73 

After  Care  and  Treatment 69-70 

Infection — Septic  74 

Inguinal  Hernia    47-51 

Injuries  from  Casting 76 

Intestine— Prolapse  of  the 76 

Mare  Spaying 153-163 

Objects  and  Indications 153 

Age 153 

Season  153 

Preparation    153 

Restraint   154-155 

Instruments   155 

Anatomy    156-158 

Warning   158 


INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Operative  Technique  158-163 

After  Care  and  Treatment   163 

Sequelae    163 

Mule— Castration  of  the  43-46 

Objects  and  Indications  43 

Age   43 

Season  43 

Preparation   14 

Eestraint  for 36-39 

Instruments  for 39 

Warning 23-24 

Operative  Technique 43-46 

After  Care  and  Treatment 29 

Sequelae   74-91 

Nature's  Methods  of  Controlling  Hemorrhage    22-23 

Oedema  of  Sheath   and  Ventral  Surface  of 

Abdomen   79-81 

Omentum— Prolapse  of  the 75-76 

Orchitis   71 

Paraphimosis    81-82 

Peritonitis   77 

POULARDIZING   218-223 

Objects  and  Indications  218 

Age 218 

Season  218 

Preparation    218 

Restraint 218-219 

Instruments   219 

Breeds  219 

Anatomy 219-221 

Warning   221 

Operative  Technique  222-223 

After  Care  and  Treatment  223 

Primary  Hemorrhage   78-79 

Prolapse  of  Intestine 76 

Prolapse  of  Omentum 75-76 


INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Eam— Castration  of  the  124-130 

Objects  and  Indications  124 

Age 124 

Season   124 

Preparation   124 

Restraint 124 

Instruments    124 

Anatomy 125 

Operative  Technique  127-129 

After  Care  and  Treatment 129 

IvUPTFRED  Boar — Castration  of  115-123 

ScHiRRous  Cord  82-86 

Scrotal  Hernia  (Boar)    115-123 

(Stallion)    47-51 

Secondary  Hemorrhage 79 

Septic  Infection   74 

Sequelae  of  Castration  74-91 

Sheath— Oedema  of  the   79-81 

Skunk— Deodorizing  the  224-227 

Objects  and  Indications  224 

Age 224 

Season  224 

Preparation    224 

Restraint   224-225 

Instruments   225 

Anatomy 225-226 

Warning   227 

Operative  Technique   227 

After  Care  and  Treatment 227 

Spaying  the  B:tch   201-212 

Objects  and  Indications  201 

Age    201 

Season  201 

Preparation   201 

Methods  of  Operating 201 

Anaesthesia   ^ 201-202 

Instruments   202 

Anatomy 203-205 

Restraint  (Belly  Method)   206-207 

Operative  Technique  (Belly  Method)   .  .207-208 

Restraint  (Flank  Method)  208-209 

Operative  Technique  (Flank  Method).  .209-211 

After  Care  and  Treatment 211 

Sequelae   211-212 

16 


INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

SrAYiXG  THE  Calf  179-180 

Objects  and  Tiidicatioiis   179-180 

Age   180 

Season   180 

Preparation    170 

Restraint    180-181 

Instrnments   181 

Operative  Teehnicpie  (Flank  Method).  .181-1815 
Operative  Technitiue  (Belly  ^Method)..  18:] 
Sequelae 1 84 

Spayixg  the  Cat 218-217 

Objects  and  Indications   218 

Age  218 

Season   218 

P]'e]jaration    213 

Methods    218 

Anaesthesia   213 

Instnnnents   213 

Anatomv 213-210 

Restraint  (Bellv  Method)    215 

Operative  Technique  (Bellv  IVIetliod)   .  .2'J7-20H 

Restraint  (P^lank  Method) " 215-217 

Operative  Techni(|ne  (Flank  Metli<Hl) .  .209-211 
Sequelae    211-212 

Spayixg  the  Cow  164-170 

Objects  and  Indications   164 

Age 164 

Season    164 

Preparation   161-16() 

Restraint    166 

Instruments    166 

Anatomy 166-167 

Warning   167 

Operative  'I\'chiii(ine   167-170 

After  Care  and  Tiratnient 170 

Si'AYJXG  the  Eave   197-200 

Objects  and   Indications   197 

Age  197 

Season   197 

Preparation    197 

Restraint    197 

Instruments   197 


INDEX— Continued. 

Page 

Anatomy  198 

Warning   199 

Operative  Technique 199-200 

After  Care  and  Treatment 200 

Spaying  the  Heifer 170-179 

Objects  and  Indications   170 

Age 170 

Season  , 170 

Preparation    170 

Restraint 170-171 

Instruments  .  .  171-173 

Operative  Technique 174-179 

Spaying  the  Mare 153-163 

Objects  and  Indications 153 

Age 153 

Season  153 

Preparation    153 

Restraint   154-155 

Instruments   155 

Anatomy 156-158 

Warning 158 

Operative  Technique   158-163 

After  Care  and  Treatment   163 

Sequelae    163 

Spaying  Sows 185-195 

Objects  and  Indications   185 

Age 185 

Season   185 

Preparation   185 

Restraint 186-189 

Instruments   189 

Anatomv 189-191 

Operative  Technique  (Flank  Method)  ..  191-193 
Operative  Technique   (Belly  Method)  ..  194-195 

Stallion— Castration  of  the  14-35 

Objects  and  Indications   14 

Age   14 

Season   14 

Preparation    14 

Anatomy 19-22 

Comi^lications  in 47-73 

After  Care  and  Treatment 28 


INDEX -Con fin u^if 

Page 

Sequelae   74-91 

Prognosis   28 

Stalliox — Castration  of  in  Recumbent  Posture  14-28 

Restraint  for 14-16 

Instruments  for   16-19 

Warning 23-24 

Operative  Technique  25-27 

Stallion — Castration  of  in  Standing  Posture.  29-35 

Restraint  for  29 

Instruments  for    29 

Warning   30 

Operative  Technique  31-34 

Advantages   34 

Disadvantages   34 

Tetanus   74-75 

''Water  Bag"— See  Hydrocele. 


Restraint  of  Domestic  Animals 


(2nd  Edition) 


A  BOOK  FOR  STUDENTS  AND  PRACTITIONERS 

With  312  illustrations  from  drawings  by  one  of  the  best  pen  artists  in  the 
United  States,  and  26  halftones  from  original  photographs 

BY 


GEORGE  R.  WHITE,  M.D,  D.Y.S. 

NASHVILLE,  TENNESSEE 

This   book  contains   over  300  pages   and   illustratew  and   fully   describes  every   known 

means  of  Restraint  of  the  Horse,  Ox,  Dog  and  Hog.     It  is  by  far 

the  best  illustrated  book  ever  written  in  America 

on  any  branch  of  Veterinary  Science. 


*<  Restraint  of   Domestic  Ariitnals"  has    alreadj-  been  adopted  as  a  Text   Book 

in  18  of  the  21  Veterinary  Colleges  of  America. 

Its  sale  has  been  phenomenal. 

Every  practitioner  should  secure  one  for  study  and  reference. 

Published  and  for  sale  by  the  author;  also  sold  by  all  veterinary  booksellers. 

^     PRICE,  $3.75  POSTPAID,  TO  ANY  ADDRESS    ^ 

A  FEW  EXPRESSIONS  FEOM  THE  PROFESSION 

DR.  JOHN  G.   RUTHERFORD,   President  American  Veterinary   JVIedica!  Association. 

"Your  handsome  and  comprehensive  book  on  'Restraint  of  Domestic  Animals'  received, 
and  I  am  convinced  that  it  is  a  most  valuable  book.  The  illustrations  are  exceedingly 
well  done  and  the  letterpress  is  very  clear  and  fully  explains  the  methods  of  using  the 
various  appliances.  You  are  to  be  congratulated  upon  striking  an  entirely  new  line  in 
veterinary  authorship." 

PROP.  J.   MACQUEEN,   Royal     Veterinary  College,  London,  England. 

"I  have  looked  through  the  book  on  'Restraint.'  It  seems  to  be  a  very  useful  work. 
In  this  country  there  is  a  growing  tendency  to  operate  under  general  anaesthesia.  To 
those  who  experience  difficulty  in  casting  and  fixing  their  patients  for  operation  your 
book  should  be  very  welcome." 

PROF.  W.  L.  WILLIAMS,  Professor  Surgery,  New  York  State  Veterinary  College,  Cornell 
University. 

"I  have  heartily  recommended  your  excellent  book  to  our  students." 


PROF.  LOUIS  A.  MERILLAT,  Professor  Surgery,  Chicago  Veterinary  College. 

"I  have  looked  over  the  book  carefully  and  beg  to  express  my  appreciation  of 
\  our  successful  effort.  The  book  is  needed  tjy  the  teacher,  by  the  student,  and  I'ly  the 
practitioner,  and  it  will  undoubtedly  tend  to  standardize  methods  of  restraint — a  reforma- 
tion that  is  very  desirable  in  veterinary  surgery.  I  have  already  adopted  it  as  a  text- 
book and  predict  that  it  will  be  as  favorably  received  wherever  the  importance  of  good 
surgical  Restraint  is  comprehended." 

PROF.  HARRY  D.  GILL,  Professor    Surgery  New  York  American  Veterinary  College. 

"1  desire  to  compliment  you  on  its  comprehensiveness,  and  to  assure  you  that  it  fills 
the  widest  gap  in  veterinary  literature  existing  today.  It  is  an  indispensable  reference 
liot  only  for  teachers,  but  practitioners  and  students  as  well. 

"To  thoroughly  appreciate  your  work  the  reader  should  have  witnessed  your  demon- 
strations along  this  line  as  I  have,  and  I  cannot  understand  why  you  have  not  long 
since  been  employed  by  the  various  colleges  to  teach  this  most  important  subject." 

PROF.  D.  E.  SALMON,  University  of  Montevideo,  Uruguay. 

"I  desire  to  congratulate  you  upon  the  completion  of  a  book  which  has  certainly 
required  nmch  time  and  labor  in  its  preparation.  It  will  be  a  useful  handbook  for  both 
ihe  student  and  practitioner  of  veterinary  surgery." 

WILFRED  S.  PLASKETT,  D.V.S.,  Clinton,  Mass. 

"It  is  a  capital  book,  and  will  be  appreciated  alike  by  the  student  and  practitioner. 
The  text  is  graphic  and  the  illustrations  are  the  'best  ever.'  One  can  see  the  modus 
operandi  from  a  glance  at  the  cuts.  I  trust  the  book  will  be  received  by  the  profession 
and  that  the  second  edition  will  be  shortly  forthcoming.  The  book  is  neatly  gotten  out 
and  is  a  credit  to  the  publishing  house  and  the  printer. 

"You  have  filled  a  long  felt  want.  I  think  I  was  one  of  the  first  to  suggest  that  you 
undertake  the  work,  consequently  will  watch  its  merited  reception  by  the  profession 
with  ?.  selfish  interest." 

PROF.  E.  A.  A.  GRANGE,  V.S.,  M.S.,  Principal  Ontario  Veterinary  College. 

"I  think  you  have  approached  a  subject  which  has  hitherto  l)een  almost  neglected, 
and  you  have  done  it  in  a  manner  that  is  both  terse  and  comprehensive,  and  nicely  illus- 
trated. 

"I  think  your  volume  will  be  a  boon  to  young  men  who  are  just  entering  the  practice 
of  the  veterinary  profession,  and  no  doubt  to  many  who  have  been  in  practice  for  a  long 
Lime. 

"I  have  added  it  to  our  list  of  text-books." 

PROF.  SESCO  STEWART,  M.D.,  D.V.M.,  Dean    Kansas  City  Veterinary  College. 

"We  have  adopted  'Restraint  of  Domestic  Animals'  as  a  text-book,  feeling  that  it 
affords  students  very  valuable  instruction  and  guidance  not  readily  obtainable  elsewhere. 
I  feel  that  the  profession  is  greatly  indebted  to  you  for  placing  this  matter  in  their  hands 
in  such,  an  excellent  form." 

PROF.  DAVID  S.  WHITE,  Dean  Veterinary   Department  Ohio  State  University. 

"This  is  to  inform  you  that  we  recommend  the  hook  to  our  students  and  they 
are  supplying  themselves  with  them.  Let  me  congratulate  you  upon  adding  so  valuable 
a  work  to  our  literature  and  at  the  same  time  in  a  very  i)ractical  way  offering  a  kind 
ef  information  to  veterinary  students  muc-h  neglected  at  most  veterinary  colleges." 

PROF.  LOUIS  P.  COOK,  D.V.S.,  Dean  Cincinnati  Veterinary  College. 

"The  work  has  been  adopted  as  a  text^book  at  this  college,  and  we  regret  that  it  was 
not  issued  earlier.  It  fills  a  long  felt  need.  Had  it  been  issued  before  our  session  of 
ly08-09  was  so  nearly  over  we  would  have  required  senior  and  junior  students  to  ol)tain 
copies.  I  regard  the  work  as  one  of  merit  and  value  to  students  and  practitioners,  and  I 
trust  you  will  be  repaid  for  the  trouble  you  have  evidently  gone  to  to  get  the  work 
together.     Congratulating  you  on  your  success  as  an  author  and  with  best  wishes." 


PROF.  GEORGE    H.   GLOVER,   Veterinary   Department   Colorado   State   College   of  Agri- 
cuKure. 

"We  are  now  using  your  text-book,  'Restraint  of  Domestic  Animals,'"  and  find  it  satis- 
factory in  every  respect.    It  fills  a  long  felt  want  and  does  you  great  credit." 

PROF.  CHARLES  KEANE,  D.V.S.,  President  San  Francisco  Veterinary  College. 

"We  consider  this  work  a  much  needed  book  and  will  adopt  same  as  text-book  at 
this  institution." 

PROF.  C.  A.  CARY,  B.S.,  D.V.IVl.,  Veterinary  Department  Alabama  Polyteclinic  institute. 

"It  impresses  me  very  favorably.  Indeed,  I  think  it  supplies  a  vacant  place  in  our 
literature.    It  will  be  used  as  a  text-book  in  this  school." 

PROF.  W.  J.  R.  FOWLER,  V.S.,  Professor  Surgery  Ontario  Veterinary  College. 

"I  find  it  to  be  a  book  which  has  long  been  needed.  It  is  a  complete  work  and  will 
give  a  student  or  practitioner  a  thorough  idea  of  the  subject  of  restraint." 

PROF.  C.  E.  STEEL,  D.V.S.,  Dean  St.  Joseph  Veterinary  College. 

"Your  book,  entitled  'Restraint  of  Domestic  Animals,'  has  my  hearty  endorsement.  1 
think  it  supplies  a  long  felt  want  in  veterinary  literature." 

PROF.  D.  E.  BUCKINGHAM,  Dean  Department  of  Veterinary  Medicine,  George  Washing, 
ton  University. 

"I  am  constrained  to  say  that  a  master  of  the  art  has  described  all  the  methods  of 
restraint,  and  the  book  is  a  masterpiece.    I  have  adopted  it  as  a  text-book  in  this  school." 

PROF.  F.  S.  SCHOENLEBER,  D.V.S.,  Veterinary  Department  Kansas  Agricultural  College. 

"I  can  see  that  it  fills  a  gap  in  our  work  and  will  prove  a  very  valuable  acquisition 
to  the  college  course  of  study.  1  wish  you  the  full  measure  of  success  that  the  book  de- 
serves." 

PROF.  GEO.  B.  McKILLIP,  M.D.V.,  Secretary  and  Treasurer  McKillip  Veterinary  College. 

"I  am  pleased  to  inform  you  that  your  book  on  "Restraint  of  Domestic  Animals'  has 
already  been  adopted  as  a  text-book  in  the  McKillip  Veterinary  College." 

PROF.  JOHN    R.  SCULLY,  Secretary  Terre   Haute  Veterinary  College. 

"This  book  is  most  complete  and  concise.  For  a  text-book  I  am  positive  that  it  can- 
not but  be  well  liked  by  both  the  practitioner  and  student." 

PROF.  H.  L.  SCHUH,  Professor  Surgery  Grand  Rapids  Veterinary  College. 

"Your  book  on  'Restraint  of  Domestic  Animals'  received  and  we  think  it  a  very  useful 
work.  This  book  will  be  placed  upon  the  list  of  recommended  books  for  the  student  to 
buy,  and  we  will  do  all  in  our  power  to  assist  you  in  getting  'Restraint  of  Domestic 
Animals'  in  the  hands  of  students  and  practitioners." 

PROF.  H.  E.  BEMIS,  D.V.M.,  Assistant  Professor  Surgery,  Division  Veterinary  Medicine, 
Iowa  State  College. 

"I  consider  the  volume  full  of  most  practical  and  therefore  useful  information  upon  the 
subject  of  animal  restraint.  I  gladly  recommend  it  to  our  students,  and  they,  too,  seem 
much  interested." 

PROF,    R.   C,    MOORE,   D.V.S.,   President   Kansas  City  Veterinary  College. 

"I  think  the  work  is  most  excellent  and  one  that  certainly  is  of  very  great  value  to 
every  practitioner." 


PROF,  FREDERICK    R.  WHIPPLE,   M.D.V.,   Instructor  in   Veterinary  Science,  West  Vir- 
ginia University. 

"You  have  covered  the  subject  of  'Restraint  of  Domestic  Animails'  well,  and  I  shaP 
recommend  the  book  to  every  student  in  our  school.  Proper  restraint  means  better  sur- 
gery. All  good  surgeons  are  cranks  in  securing  their  patients,  indifferent  surgeons  should 
study  this  book  and  become  cranks  on  the  subject  of  restraint." 

RICHARD  P.  LYMAN,  B.S.,  M.D.V.,  Secretary  American  Veterinary  Medical  Association. 

"I  am  led  to  believe  that  it  is  soing  to  fill  a  valuable  place  in  the  library  of  the  vet- 
erinarian as  well  as  being  a  great  aid  to  the  student  and  instructor.  This  latter  appeals 
to  me  especially  because  1  am  so  intimately  associated  with  the  demonstration  of  animal 
restraint  which  is  included  in  the  course  I  am  giving  in  surgical  exercises  at  the  Kansas 
City  Veterinary  College." 

PROF.    J.    H.    SKINNER,    Dean    School    of   Agriculture   and    Professor   of   Animal    Hus- 
bandry, Pardue  University. 
"The  book  is  certainly  complete  and  one  which  offers  many  valuable  suggestions  to 

farmers  and  others  interested  in  the  restraint  of  animals.    The  illustrations  are  splendid 

and  description  all  that  is  necessary." 

PROF.  L.  M.  HURT,  D.V.M.,  Professor  Veterinary  Science,  Michigan  Agricultural  College. 
"I  feel  that  its  general  nature  is  such  that  it  supplies  a  long  felt  want.    I  can  and  will 
recommend  it  to  our  students." 

PROF.   F.   B.   HADLEY,  D.V.M.,  Professor  Surgery,  Veterinary  Department  Washington 

State  College. 

"The  copy  of  'Restraint  of  Domestic  Animals'  at  hand,  and  after  a  careful  review  of 
its  contents  can  say  that  I  consider  it  of  great  value  and  have  recommended  that  each 
of  my  students  purchase  a  volume.  It  seems  of  particular  worth  to  such  men  as  intend 
to  practice  and  have  not  the  funds  to  install  an  operating  table  at  once,  as  its  many 
extremely  practical  methods  of  restraint  are  well  illustrated  so  that  the  application  of 
each  is  very  simple." 

DRS.  JACOB  &  SHAW,   Knoxville,  Tenn. 

"It   will  undoubtedly  prove  a   valuable  addition  to  American  veterinary  literature." 

DR.  WILLIAM  P.  HILL,  Veterinarian  Twelfth  Cavalry,  U.  S.  Army. 

"The  volume  on  'Restraint  of  Domestic  Animals'  is  quite  complete.  I  consider  it  an 
excellent  book." 

PROF.  GEO.  C.  HUMPHREY,  Professor  Animal  Husbandry,  University  of  Wisconsin. 

"I  feel  that  it  will  be  of  special  interest  to  our  agricultural  students  in  pursuing  their 
courses  in  veterinary  science  and  animal  husbandry." 

DR.  A.  M.  FARRINGTON,  Assistant  Chief  Bureau  Animal  Industry,  U.  S.  Department  of 
Agriculture. 
"1  congratulate  you  on  the  production  and  believe  it  is  the  most  complete  woik  on  the 
subject  which  has  ever  been  printed." 

G.  B.  GILTNER,  V.S.,   Murfreesboro,  Tenn. 

"I  find  it  very  interesting  as  well  as  instructive,  and  desire  to  congratulate  you  in 
your  successful  effort  in  placing  so  valuable  a  work  in  the  hands  of  the  veterinary 
profession." 

PROF.   FREDERICK   W.  WILSON,   Animal    Husbandman,  Agricultural    Experiment  Sta- 
tion, Phoenix,  Arizona. 
"I  think  without  doubt  that  this  is  one  of  the  books  that  should  be  found  In  each 
practitioner's  library.    It  is  also  an  invaluable  book  for  the  farmer  as  well." 

J.  M.  PHILLIPS,  D.V.S.,  St.  Louis,  Mo. 

"The  illustrations  are  clear  and  the  descriptions  easily  understood.  It  is  surely  a 
volume  deserving  a  place  in  the  lilirary  of  every  veterinarian." 


^    JUN  82 


DEC  0 1  1999 

JAN  2  0  2000 

DEC  0  9  2002 

